India, Feb. 5 -- In a move to curb electricity theft and unprecedented attacks on DISCOMs (Distribution Company) staff engaged in dehooking measures, the Odisha Energy Department has decided to provide police protection to those concerned.

In a letter, dated January 24, to the Director General and Inspector-General of Police (DG & IG), the Energy Department requested the district Superintendents of Police (SPs) to assess local conditions and ensure security for DISCOM enforcement squads.

The letter mentioned increasing disruptions caused by anti-social elements during electricity dehooking activities and stated that mishandling of enforcement squads sometimes even leads to law and order situations.

Notably, unauthorized electricity us...