Arbitrary power charges, security lapses: Gurgaon homeowners go to police

Gurgaon: Homeowners at a residential complex in Sector 35 have lodged a complaint with police naming the developer, management agency and estate management personnel over various issues pertaining to electricity charges, power infrastructure and a recent security-related incident.Residents of The Melia, who lodged the complaint with Sohna police station following an incident on Feb 23, said they are seeking uninterrupted electricity supply, adherence to the maintenance agreement and "assurances on safety" within the complex, developed by Silverglades.
The matter escalated on Monday, when electricity supply to some households was stopped, leading to a gathering within the complex to seek clarification. During this time, the residents said, external security personnel were present in the premises, which has caused concerns, "particularly as families were present at the time". Meanwhile, homeowners have also submitted representations to authorities — builder management and maintenance agencies — and said they are "seeking resolution through dialogue and official channels".The developer could not be reached for his comment.Residents allegedly made "multiple representations" to the on-site management team and also approached the developer's corporate office in Gurgaon in recent months to seek clarification and a resolution. However, "discussions had not yet resulted in a mutually agreed solution".Residents said they currently pay maintenance charges of Rs 4 per sq ft plus applicable taxes, in line with the maintenance agreement signed at the time of possession. They said the agreement covers essential services such as security, common area electricity, clubhouse operations and general upkeep and alleged that separate billing for common area electricity has been introduced despite it being part of the maintenance component. Homeowners also pointed to the absence of a dedicated power line at the project, which they said leads to system overloads during peak demand periods. Residents said that diesel generators are used for several hours daily in summer months and that generator-backed power is billed at around Rs 30 per unit. Residents maintained that they "remain open to constructive engagement" with the developer and authorities to resolve the issues they have raised.