K'taka Congress demands withdrawal of power tariff hike

Bengaluru: Karnataka Congress on Monday demanded that the government withdraw the hike in electricity tariffs and threatened to stage State-wide protests if it failed to do so.

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission has approved revision of electricity tariff for all Electricity Supply Companies with an average increase of 40 paise per unit and the government is implementing it from November 1, KPCC President DK Shivakumar said.

Speaking to reporters here, he termed the hike as “anti-people” and against the interests of industry, traders, farmers and across sectors, as he pointed out that it has come at a time when there is distress due to COVID and the current economic situation.

“I urge the government to withdraw the hike and at least for the next one-and-half years such a step (hike) should not be taken,” he added.

Further, he noted that as there are good rains and dams are full, the cost of production will be less. So the government should have taken a decision in the interest of the people without placing a burden on them.

“The government should immediately withdraw the hike… if not withdrawn in a week’s time Congress will hold protests in front of power department offices at all district centres from November 17-20. Also, one-day protests will be held from November 23-28 at all taluk headquarters,” he added.