Blaming it on a Rs 27,000 crore debt left by the previous AAP government with power distribution companies (Discoms) through the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood on Monday suggested that electricity prices could rise.
"The previous government has left a debt of Rs 27 thousand crores of regulatory assets with the discoms through DERC. To recover this, the companies are authorised to increase the electricity rates. During the tenure of the previous government, on the orders of the High Court, DERC was ordered to bring tariff orders," Sood said.
He was replying AAP MLA Imran Hussain in the Delhi Assembly regarding potential tariff hikes. According to Sood, discoms have the authority to increase rates to recover the debt. "In the coming time, electricity prices will increase, and perhaps some individuals even want this for their political benefit. However, the government is in constant communication with DERC and is closely monitoring the situation," Sood said as quoted by Times of India.
He said that during the previous government's rule, the Delhi High Court had instructed DERC to issue a tariff order, but the administration failed to protect public interests.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta marked the start of the budget session by preparing 'Kheer' as a ceremonial gesture. The session, running from March 24 to 28 with a possible extension, is significant for the BJP, which recently returned to power after 27 years.
Meanwhile, former Delhi chief minister and AAP leader Atishi on Monday criticised the BJP-led central government. She alleged that the promised Rs 2,500 financial aid for women had not materialised. She expressed hope that the ruling party would fulfil its commitments during the Budget Session.
Speaking to media, the Leader of the Opposition said, "The BJP made many promises before the elections. We hope they will be fulfilled in this budget session. The most important promise was that women in Delhi would receive Rs 2,500 on March 8. Till today, even the registration for the scheme has not begun. It is clear that PM Modi lied and deceived the people of Delhi."
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