After a day-long confrontation between the AAP-led Delhi government and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena today over the extension of subsidized power connections, the latter signed on the files that would have otherwise stopped subsidized electricity to nearly 46 lakh people in the national capital for the coming year.
Power Minister Atishi had earlier today announced that subsidies will cease from Friday, as Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena is yet to clear the file to extend it.
“The subsidy we give to 46 lakh people will stop from today. From Monday onwards, people will get inflated bills without subsidy," Delhi Power Minister Atishi said during a press conference.
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She added that the AAP government has decided to continue the subsidy for the coming year. However, that file is with Delhi LG and the subsidy will be stopped till the file doesn't come back.
Saxena's office advised Atishi to "refrain from unnecessary politicking" while calling the accusations baseless. He also asked why the decision was kept pending till April 4, given the deadline was April 15, and why was the file sent to him on April 11.
"Power Minister is advised to refrain from unnecessary politicking and baseless, false allegations against LG. She should stop misleading people with false statements... What's the need for a drama on 13th April by writing a letter and the press conference today?" a statement from the Lieutenant Governor's office read as per an NDTV report.
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Atishi also claimed that she had sought a five-minute appointment with Saxena to discuss the issue of power subsidy, but received no response from the LG.
The AAP government in Delhi provides up to 200 units of monthly consumption to consumers. Those with 201 to 400 units of monthly power consumption requirements get a 50 per cent subsidy capped at ₹ 850.
The AAP has government allocated a budget of ₹ 3250 crores for power subsidy for 2023-24.
