KERALA: The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) opposition has strongly criticized the Kerala government’s recent move to hike electricity tariffs, accusing the state administration of strategically favoring Adani Group through its decisions. This, they allege, has caused massive losses to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) while burdening the common man with exorbitant electricity costs.
Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan and senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala accused the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government of orchestrating this decision. According to them, the hike is the fallout of terminating a significant long-term power purchase agreement signed during the UDF’s tenure in 2016, which was set at rates below Rs 5 per unit.
Adani’s Entry Alters Power Purchase Landscape
The UDF leaders alleged that the LDF government terminated this long-term power purchase agreement to make way for Adani Group’s entry into Kerala’s power purchase system. This strategic shift reportedly forced KSEB to buy electricity at rates that were two to three times higher than the earlier rates. This change has led to KSEB’s rising debt burden and higher costs for consumers.
The power tariff hike is not just a financial burden but is expected to strain the average consumer. Thousands of crores have now been added to the electricity bills of ordinary citizens as a direct consequence, the leaders claimed.
The Opposition has demanded transparency from the government on its decision-making process and called for a rollback of the hike to alleviate the financial pressure on the people of Kerala. Moreover, they have urged the government to ensure accountability for its choices, particularly concerning power policies that align with corporate interests.
Public Anger and Debt Concerns
The UDF’s statement reflects mounting public frustration with rising electricity costs and the perception of corporatist decisions being prioritized over consumer welfare. Many residents and stakeholders have criticized the move, questioning whether political strategies are being prioritized at the expense of transparency and economic stability.
The political slugfest between the Congress-led UDF and the LDF government continues to intensify as this issue highlights deep divides in Kerala’s administration and governance.
As the debate escalates, the government will need to address concerns about affordability, power sector reform, and the public’s growing distrust in electricity reforms.
Source: Web Team, C6N
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