Kumari Selja, the National General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee and former Union Minister, slammed the BJP-JJP coalition government in Haryana, alleging widespread exploitation in the form of electricity bills. She claimed that the government is imposing exorbitant amounts on consumers under the pretext of smart meter security charges, creating financial distress for the public without prior notice or written orders.
Selja expressed concern that despite the forceful implementation of smart meters, which operate at higher speeds than traditional meters, the government is adding charges to bills even before their installation. Fearful of disconnection, consumers are compelled to pay these charges. Selja argued that it is unjust to collect such hefty amounts from the public in this manner. She emphasized that when a new meter replaces an old one, no additional recovery should be made from consumers. The government should bear the cost of installing these meters. Additionally, Selja proposed that consumers› security deposits with the Electricity Corporation should accrue 18% annual interest.
The former Union Minister pointed out the contradiction between the BJP›s promises in states with elections, where they pledge free electricity, and the reality in Haryana. Despite being in power for nine consecutive years, the Haryana BJP is not delivering on free elaectricity promises; instead, substantial bills, including security charges, are burdening even the poorest families. Selja highlighted the dilemma faced by citizens—whether to support their families or fill the government›s coffers with substantial electricity payments. Given that existing meters function adequately, she questioned the rationale behind spending crores on new meters. Selja urged the state government to immediately halt the clandestine collection of amounts from electricity bills under the guise of smart meter and advance security charges.