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UP’s Braj region protests against smart meters
Protests against smart meters spread across Uttar Pradesh’s Braj region, starting with Akola in rural Agra on May 1, 2026, where meters were dismantled. On May 2, protests continued in Aligarh, Firozabad, and Hathras, with women actively participating, police at sub-stations, and a future protest call issued for May 18 in Atrauli.
Why It Matters
The protests reflect local resistance to the rollout of smart meters, with prominent participation by women and opposition from regional political groups, indicating growing scrutiny of private installation and consumer consent in the region.
Timeline
6 Events
Rashtriya Lok Dal opposition and Chahar's remarks
May 2, 2026
Rashtriya Lok Dal voiced opposition to smart meters. Kaptan Singh Chahar, the state vice-president of Rashtriya Lok Dal, asserted resentment against smart meters and urged the energy minister to reconsider. He stated that the meters are being installed against consumers' wishes and described the private company installing them as arbitrary. The RLD said it would support these agitations and oppose any cases against consumers dismantling the meters.
Firozabad protests with women at Kotla Chungi crossing
May 2, 2026
In Firozabad, hundreds of women gathered on Saturday with smart meters and held a protest meeting at Kotla Chungi crossing.
Hathras protests highlight women’s participation
May 2, 2026
The highlight of these protests is the participation of women, with active involvement observed in Hathras.
Aligarh: Upar Kot sub-station and Atrauli protest call
May 2, 2026
In the Upar Kot area of Aligarh, a crowd gathered at the electricity department sub-station. In Atrauli town of Aligarh district, a call was given for a massive protest against smart meters on May 18.
Saturday protests in Aligarh, Firozabad and Hathras
May 2, 2026
Similar protests were lodged in districts of Aligarh, Firozabad, and Hathras on Saturday. In Aligarh, a crowd reached the electricity department sub-station at Upar Kot and police force also reached the spot as slogans against smart meters were raised.
Friday protests in Akola area of rural Agra against smart meters
May 1, 2026
Hundreds of villagers in the Akola area dismantled the smart meters and dumped them at an electricity department sub station, as a mark of protest. The protest continued for three hours, with the protestors demanding that old meters be allowed to continue. Rajveer Lawania, the district president of the Bhartiya Kisan Union, joined the protests at the sub station.