Shillong: The Meghalaya government has officially terminated its contract with SAI Computers, ending a controversial effort to privatize power distribution in the Mawsynram Civil Sub-division. The state-run Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited has resumed direct control over the region's electricity management effective immediately.
Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh confirmed the cancellation Wednesday, noting that the firm failed to meet contractual obligations. According to a formal order from the Director of Distribution, the company did not execute the required Distribution Franchisee Agreement within the six-month window following their November 2025 appointment.
While the government cited these legal technicalities, the decision follows a period of significant social unrest, including the destruction of the company's local office. Minister Lyngdoh maintained that the government had been reviewing the contract for some time, stating, “The government moved cautiously to ensure the decision was legally sound, as the transition remains under judicial scrutiny.”
The move drew praise from local leaders, including MLA Ollan Singh Suin and VPP representative Ardent M. Basaiawmoit, who had long opposed the franchisee model. Critics argued that a private firm lacked the necessary accountability for the region. As the state reclaims operations, residents are still waiting for clarification regarding the fate of smart meters installed during the private firm's short tenure.
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