No plans to change Delhi power subsidy scheme, says Atishi

She alleged that the L-G Office had circulated a note illegally recommending changes in the policy: “Under pressure from the PMO to stop the power subsidy in Delhi, the L-G had instructed the power department to withdraw (it) based on flawed legal advice. However, in a letter dated 6.01.2023, DERC had recalled its prior advice to the Delhi government on curtailing power subsidy to consumers having connections of fixed load above 5kW or 3kW.”

“After detailed examination of various legal provisions of Electricity Act 2003 and prior SC judgments, DERC concluded that it has no legal basis or jurisdiction to advise the Delhi government about withdrawal of subsidy for any category of consumers,” she said.

Officials in Raj Niwas said the L-G had not suggested that subsidies be removed but only that they be given to those who deserve them.

Atishi said Manish Sisodia, who was the former power minister, had written to the DERC chairman requesting him to re-examine the issue and give fresh opinion on the matter. Following which, the commission carried out a detailed legal examination and placed its fresh opinion through an order on January 6, retracting its prior ‘statutory advice’ on legal grounds.

The minister further added that the government is working on renewing the voluntary subsidy scheme which will expire on March 31. The scheme will be relaunched in April and the people have to opt for the subsidy again. “This time, we are planning to ease the process by taking an agreement like yes or no for subsidy from consumers,” said Atishi