The Sub-Registrar’s Office in Belagavi has been functioning in complete darkness for the last three days after its electricity connection was disconnected due to non-payment of dues running into lakhs.
The power supply was cut by HESCOM after the office failed to clear pending electricity bills amounting to ₹2,31,511. With no power, all online services at the office have come to a standstill, bringing registration work to a halt.
People travelling from distant places for registrations and documentation have been left frustrated and angry. Many openly questioned the officials, asking how a government office that pays salaries on time cannot even pay its electricity bill.
Office staff member Anil Gore confirmed that the dues are pending and admitted that no registration work can be carried out as computer systems are shut due to the power cut.
Citizens have strongly criticised the government for this negligence, calling it shameful. Senior officials have now intervened and warned that protests will be launched if the issue is not resolved immediately by clearing the outstanding bills.