CPI(M) Announces August 5 Protest Against ‘True-Up Charges’ Hike

Speedy Summary:

• The CPI(M) State Committee opposed ₹12,771 crore in additional power tariff charges proposed under true-up charges, urging its withdrawal.
• Statewide protests are planned for August 5 under the banner of Praja Vedika to rally public support against these measures.
• CPI(M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao highlighted government claims of no power tariff hikes but accused it of being complicit as distribution companies submitted proposals to the Electricity Regulatory Commission (ERC).
• Rao argued that ₹3,000 crore had been collected over the past three years for the 2014-19 true-up period while accusing the coalition government of imposing a fuel surcharge adjustment charge totaling ₹15,485 crore between 2022-23 and 2023-24. Another ₹2,787 crore is set for collection in 2024-25 at a rate of 40 paise per unit monthly.
• He also warned smart meter rollouts would further increase consumer costs and criticized alleged financial mismanagement and corporate corruption.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The CPI(M)’s opposition highlights growing concerns about rising energy costs and how they effect ordinary consumers across India. Their call for protest reflects dissatisfaction not only with recent tariffs but also with what they perceive as systemic issues like mismanagement and lack of transparency regarding energy pricing policies. The criticism surrounding smart meters demonstrates apprehension about technological solutions possibly exacerbating power cost burdens rather than alleviating them.

These developments may bring attention to broader structural challenges within India’s energy sector-such as balancing fiscal sustainability with consumer affordability-and demand stronger accountability from both governments and regulatory bodies on fulfilling electoral promises. Public sentiment expressed through protests like those planned on August 5 could shape future policy or force reconsideration by authorities regarding imposed tariffs.

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