Premises of the complainant/petitioner was checked by the vigilance staff of 22.03.2000.  On checking both the seals lace wires were found cut and re-affixed into seal hold with some adhesive.  The load of the complainant was found to be 7.055 kw as against the sanctioned load of 4.8 kw on one meter and 5 kw on the second meter.  The vigilance staff came to the conclusion that the petitioner was taking unauthorized load by means of malpractice and committing theft of the electricity.  Respondent issued a notice dated 25.03.2002 asking the petitioner to deposit Rs.42,225/-.  Aggrieved

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by this petitioner filed the complaint before the District Forum which was dismissed. 

The petitioner not satisfied with the order passed by the District Forum filed an appeal before the State Commission which has been dismissed by the impugned order.

          The meter removed by the vigilance staff was, admittedly, sent to M & T lab.  M & T lab also came to the conclusion that the meter had been tampered with and the petitioner was stealing the electricity.

          We agree with the findings recorded by the fora below that the petitioner was guilty of theft of electricity.  No case for interference is made out.  Dismissed.