Congress MLA protests proposed power hike, threatens agitation

New Delhi, Aug 3 (UNI) Protesting the proposed power tariff hike by BSES on the pretext of incurring losses, Congress MLA Mukesh Sharma today met DERC chairman demanding immediate rejection of the plea by the power distribution company in Delhi.

Threatening to start a phase-wise agitation all over the city if the BSES doesn't withdraw its request by August 7, Mr Sharma said the move would affect over 15 million consumers.

''In my 45-minute meeting with DERC (Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission) chairman Brijender Singh, I asked for making the five-year account of the BSES public, a proper check on its 'corrupt practices' and stopping of load shedding which was being done to cover up their power theft theory.'' Five years back when electricity distribution was transferred from DESU to private companies domestic tariff was Rs 01.20 per unit, whereas today it has reached upto Rs 05.00 per unit, he said.

''Besides, despite losses due to theft coming down from 55 per cent to 32 per cent, the company was dishing out loss figures, which was not understandable.'' It is requested from the DERC chairman to order a special audit of the BSES's accounts and in future a public notice be issued on any move which concerns the common man, Mr Sharma added.

UNI