Delhi BJP Accuses AAP of Collaborating with Power Discoms for Financial Gains

The Delhi BJP has urged Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena to investigate alleged financial misconduct in power distribution firms. Led by Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, the party claims the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has enabled these companies to gain undue financial benefits. The AAP countered, accusing the BJP of intending to transfer resources to industrialists if they gain control in Delhi.

According to the AAP, the BJP's agenda is to make electricity expensive, as seen in other states they govern. The AAP highlighted that Delhi is unique in providing free, round-the-clock electricity to all consumers. Sachdeva, speaking to reporters, demanded an inquiry into Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's role in allegedly benefiting power companies and sought recovery of dues from these firms.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

Sachdeva criticised the uniform electricity rates among three power discoms despite one consistently making profits while the others incur losses. He accused AAP leaders of accepting kickbacks from these companies and questioned why the Delhi government hasn't revoked licences of consistently loss-making private firms.

The BJP leader pointed out that discoms have been reporting regulatory assets for 11 years, claiming losses against National Power Tariff Policy guidelines. He argued that such assets should only be declared in exceptional cases and are a burden on taxpayers.

Regulatory Assets and Financial Concerns

BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj recently highlighted that two discoms' losses have been classified as regulatory assets, now exceeding Rs 21,000 crore. She criticised the private firm managing these discoms for mismanagement and suggested possible collusion with the AAP government.

Swaraj also noted that the Delhi government owes power-generation companies Rs 26,638 crore due to delayed payments. This financial situation raises concerns about potential mismanagement and lack of accountability within the power sector.

The silence of the AAP government on regulatory assets retention and non-payment of dues suggests possible collusion with power companies, according to Sachdeva. He emphasised that these issues need thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability in Delhi's power sector.