"The subsidy we provide to 46 lakh people will end today. From Monday onwards, people will receive inflated bills without subsidy," Delhi Power Minister Atishi stated at a conference, accusing the LG of failing to act on the critical file despite the AAP government's approval of the budget to sustain the subsidy in the following year.
Whereas on the other hand, LG’s office denied the claims and advised Atishi to "refrain from unnecessary politicking." The LG questioned why the decision was delayed until April 4 when the deadline was April 15, and why the file was finally sent to him on April 11.
"It is advised that the Power Minister refrain from unnecessary politicking and baseless, false allegations against LG." She needs to stop deceiving people with false statements... What is the point of staging a drama on April 13th by sending a letter and holding a news conference today?" The Lieutenant Governor's office issued a statement.
Atishi stated that she requested a five-minute meeting with Saxena to discuss the power subsidy, but has yet to receive a response after more than 24 hours.
The AAP government in Delhi provides free power to consumers who consume 200 units per month. Those who purchase 201 to 400 units receive a 50% subsidy, with a limit of 850.
Last year, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that power subsidies would be available only to those who applied for them. According to official estimates, over 48 lakh household consumers out of a total of 58 lakhs have applied for power subsidies.
The AAP administration has budgeted 3,250 crores for power subsidies in 2023-24.
