India, Nov. 2 -- The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has issued notices to several residential societies in Dombivli's MIDC area, warning that their electricity supply could be disconnected within 24 hours if they do not allow the replacement of old meters with smart meters. The notices were served on Friday, although power supply to the societies had not been disconnected till Sunday.

The move has sparked opposition from residents, who have been resisting the installation of smart meters for the past six to seven months, fearing that the new devices will lead to a sharp increase in their electricity bills. Several societies have kept their meter rooms locked to prevent MSEDCL officials and its appoint...