Distinguish between section 135 and 126 in the context of IEA 2003 dealing with theft/pilferage of energy.

In the context of the Indian Electricity Act (IEA) 2003, Sections 135 and 126 deal with the theft or pilferage of energy, but they differ in their focus and implications:

1. Section 135:

   • Section 135 of the IEA 2003 specifically addresses the issue of theft or unauthorized use of electricity. It provides provisions for penalties and punishment for offenses related to theft, tampering with meters, or unauthorized connections to the electricity supply.
   • This section empowers electricity authorities to take legal action against individuals or entities involved in electricity theft, including imposing fines, disconnecting supply, or initiating criminal proceedings.
   • The primary objective of Section 135 is to deter theft and ensure compliance with electricity laws and regulations, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the electricity supply system and protecting the interests of legitimate consumers and utilities.

2. Section 126:

   • Section 126 of the IEA 2003 focuses on the unauthorized use or abstraction of electricity by certain categories of consumers, such as landlords, tenants, or occupiers of premises, where the supply is provided through a common meter or connection.
   • This section outlines the responsibilities of landlords, tenants, or occupiers in ensuring that electricity consumption is accurately measured and billed. It prohibits the unauthorized use of electricity or tampering with meters.
   • Section 126 also provides mechanisms for addressing disputes related to billing or electricity consumption among multiple consumers sharing a common meter or connection.
   • Unlike Section 135, which primarily deals with theft and pilferage of electricity through unauthorized connections or tampering with meters, Section 126 focuses on regulating the consumption and billing practices in premises with shared supply arrangements.

In summary, while both Section 135 and Section 126 of the IEA 2003 address issues related to theft or pilferage of energy, they differ in their scope, focus, and implications. Section 135 primarily deals with penalties and legal action against electricity theft, while Section 126 focuses on regulating consumption and billing practices in premises with shared supply arrangements.