PowerSector – Supreme Court Seeks Update on Delhi Power Regulator Appointments
PowerSector – The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi government to provide details regarding the formation of a selection committee responsible for regular appointments to the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC). The matter relates to the appointment of the commission’s chairperson and other members, which has remained pending for several months.
Court Reviews Delay in DERC Appointments
A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, took note of submissions made during the hearing that a proposal to constitute the selection panel had been moved on May 4. The court sought clarification on the present status of the process and directed the Delhi government’s counsel to obtain instructions from the appropriate authority.
The bench indicated that the matter required prompt attention because the functioning of the regulatory body was being affected by the absence of regular appointments. The court asked the government representative to update the bench after consulting the competent officials.
Earlier Assurance Mentioned Before Supreme Court
During the proceedings, reference was made to an earlier assurance provided by the Delhi government before the apex court. According to the petition filed in the case, the government had informed the Supreme Court in August last year that the process for filling the posts in DERC on a regular basis would be completed quickly.
However, the appointments have not yet been finalised, leading to concerns over the commission’s operational structure. The court had previously issued notices and sought a response from the government on the matter after a plea was filed seeking directions for immediate appointments.
NGO Raises Concerns Over Current DERC Structure
The petition before the court was filed by a non-governmental organisation, which argued that the present composition of DERC does not meet legal requirements. The petitioner stated that the commission currently consists only of two pro tem members and does not have a permanent chairperson.
The plea further pointed out that there is also no member with a legal background in the commission, which, according to the petitioner, is necessary for proper functioning under the applicable regulatory framework. The NGO claimed that the absence of a fully constituted commission could impact regulatory decisions connected to electricity distribution and governance in the national capital.
Supreme Court Seeks Response by May 29
After hearing the submissions, the Supreme Court directed the concerned authorities to submit their response by May 29. The bench is expected to review the developments once the government places the updated information before the court.
The case has drawn attention because DERC plays an important role in overseeing electricity tariffs, consumer interests, and power sector regulation in Delhi. Delays in appointing permanent members and leadership positions have raised questions regarding administrative continuity and decision-making within the regulatory body.
The court’s latest direction signals that it intends to closely monitor the progress of the appointment process. Further proceedings are likely to depend on the government’s response and the timeline presented for completing the appointments.