BJP seeks Najeeb Jung's intervention on extension of power subsidy

BJP today sought Lt Governor Najeeb Jung's intervention to ensure extension of the power subsidy in Delhi beyond March 31 when it will expire.

Accusing Aam Aadmi Party government of "deceiving" people on the issue, senior BJP leader V K Malhotra asked why the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation did not make any provision in the interim budget for continuation of the subsidy.

On December 31, the then AAP government had announced 50 % power subsidy to those consumers whose consumption do not exceed 400 units a month.
The AAP government had decided to provide the subsidy till March 31 and announced that it would be reviewed thereafter.

"They misled the people of Delhi. There was no budgetary provision for the subsidy beyond March 31," Malhotra told a press conference.

Both BJP and Congress have been attacking AAP for not making provisions for extension of the subsidy beyond March 31. AAP has been maintaining that Congress and BJP had stalled the move in the assembly.

Around 28 lakh consumers have been benefitting from the subsidy scheme which was first announced by Congress government in 2007. The AAP government had increased the subsidy component to 50 per cent for those limiting their consumption to 400 units per month.

Malhotra also slammed the private power distribution companies for "not cooperating" with the CAG scrutiny of their accounts.

"Lt Governor should order a stern action against power companies so that they cooperate with the CAG audit," said Malhotra.