HP case on power share in SC at advanced stage, says Power Minister

Shimla, Mar 7 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Power Minister Vidya Stokes today said its case in the Supreme Court regarding claim over power generation in Bhakra Nangal and Beas (Dehar and Pong) projects and transfer of Shanan Power House to the state was at an advanced stage.

Informing the House of the action taken by the state government on a motion passed by it on August 23, 2006, under Rule 117, she said the court has posted the matter for last hearing on March 13, 2007 during the hearing of the case on February 12.

Ms Stokes said Himachal has been denied its due power share of 7.19 per cent in Bhakra Beas Management Board and 12 per cent free power as compensation towards land loss to the state.

However, after failing to get its rightful share in these projects despite raising the issue with the Centre, the then government had filed a case in the court of its rightful share, she said.

She said Himachal had claimed arrears of Rs 2,199.77 crore up till March 31, 1996 as against 7.19 per cent share in BBMB projects and 12 per cent free power.

Though the arrears have been arrived at without working out the interest on the amount during the period, the government has urged the court for the interest on the amount till its realisation, she said.

The Power Minister said since the matter was already before the court, it was decided not to raise it with the Centre again.

She said the state's secretary (law), additional advocate general and representatives of HPSEB had held discussion with the advocate pursuing the case on March one, two and three.

UNI