Panaji, June 24 : The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has adjourned the hearing in the ongoing smart meter matter to July 15, after taking on record a submission by Amicus Curiae Advocate Abhijit Gosavi, who informed the Commission that he would submit his comprehensive report within the next two weeks.

During the hearing, Advocate Elvis Gomes, appearing for intervenors Darryl D’Souza and Amarnath Gaonkar, confirmed that the Electricity Department, which is the respondent in the matter, has filed its official reply. Gomes stated that a copy of the response has been provided to the intervenors and that their team will examine the department’s submissions before filing a rejoinder before the Amicus Curiae.

The smart meter rollout continues to face opposition from sections of the public. Intervenor Amarnath Gaonkar appealed to Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant to completely withdraw the smart meter project and the proposed load-based billing system for domestic consumers. He argued that the new system would place an additional financial burden on households already grappling with rising living costs and inflation.

Meanwhile, intervenor Darryl D’Souza raised concerns over the technology underpinning the smart meter network, claiming that the rollout is closely linked to 5G infrastructure. Referring to various studies, D’Souza expressed apprehension that such interconnected systems could increase the risk of cyber surveillance and compromise citizens’ data privacy.

The matter will now be taken up for further hearing on July 15, after the submission of the Amicus Curiae’s report and responses from the concerned parties.