Bhopal, March 27: The Madhya Pradesh Congress has launched a strong attack against the ruling BJP government, demanding an immediate withdrawal of the proposed electricity rate hike to provide relief to consumers.
Jitu Patwari, the president of the Madhya Pradesh Congress unit, criticized the government’s decision to increase electricity rates by 4.80% starting April 1, labeling it a direct assault on the public’s finances.
He highlighted that electricity rates have already risen by 22-24% over the past decade in Madhya Pradesh, causing significant burdens for domestic consumers in the 0-50 unit slab.
Patwari also pointed out the additional monthly burden of the Fuel and Power Purchase Adjustment Surcharge (FPPAS), which he described as a hidden tax on consumers. He questioned why the losses of electricity distribution companies are repeatedly justified without accountability, accusing the government of shifting the burden of mismanagement and corruption onto the public.
He dismissed the government’s announced 20% discount on daytime electric vehicle charging as mere policy theatrics, arguing that it benefits only a few consumers while the majority continue to suffer.
Patwari further stated that farmers are already struggling with debt and crop failures, and the proposed rate hike would exacerbate their difficulties.
The increase in electricity rates is set to take effect on April 1. Senior Congress leaders Kunal Chaudhary and Jitu Patwari have accused the government of imposing an unfair financial burden on ordinary citizens and farmers.
Chaudhary urged Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in a letter to extend the March 28 deadline for agricultural loan repayments. He warned that pressuring farmers for payment now would trap them in a cycle of debt.
He also called for the waiver of the punitive interest charges of nearly 18% and criticized the aggressive campaigns for electricity bill recovery as inhumane and undemocratic.
Both leaders warned that this rate hike would lead to increased inflation, harm small industries, and place a direct burden on farmers, all while the government celebrates a ‘special year’ for farmers.
Patwari demanded the withdrawal of the rate increase, a transparent review of surcharges, an independent investigation into losses in electricity supply, and a relief package for the poor and middle class.
The Congress has indicated that if the government does not reverse its decision, it will initiate a statewide protest.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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