From October 1, residents to get electricity subsidy only if opted in Delhi: Kejriwal
Delhiites will continue getting free electricity but those consumers who wish to opt out from the subsidy can do so from October 1. “We get appreciation for Delhi Government’s free electricity scheme from all sections of the society. But, over the years, people have suggested that instead of providing subsidies to financially strong households, the money be used for schools & hospitals. Taking their demand into consideration, all consumers will be given a choice to opt-out from the subsidy or continue getting free electricity from October 1. On the basis of the choices registered, we will provide free electricity to those families who wish to seek the benefit of the scheme,” Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said.
The Delhi Cabinet approved the continuation of the free electricity scheme today wherein, 47,11,176 families are to benefit from the subsidy. Lakhs of families bearing the brunt of the rising inflation following the pandemic will greatly benefit from the scheme, it said.
Today, a cabinet meeting was held at the Delhi Secretariat, presided over by Kerjiwal. The continuation of the Government’s electricity subsidy scheme was proposed during the Cabinet meeting.
According to the resolution proposed by the power department, the Delhi Government provides subsidies to domestic consumers, farmers, and lawyers’ chambers in courts based on their consumption, which was proposed to be extended further.
The cabinet deliberated on this and approved the proposal to continue the electricity subsidy scheme in the current fiscal year 2022-23 to provide some relief to people suffering from inflation following the pandemic.
Kejriwal said: “A major decision taken by the Cabinet concerning the power sector of Delhi today. Most people living in Delhi avail a free supply of electricity, for which the Delhi Government provides subsidies. Over the years, the government has received many suggestions through letters as well as in-person interactions with us – wherein people have appreciated the free electricity policy as a noble step, but they have also acknowledged their privilege and the fact that some financially stable citizens and families do not have a need for these subsidies. In the recent past, a huge number of people have come forward and suggested that instead of giving this subsidy to them for electricity, the public funds money be put towards upgrading schools and hospitals even more.”
He concluded: “As a result, we have decided to give a choice to the people of Delhi when it comes to availing free electricity supply. We will now be asking Delhi’s residents whether or not they require the subsidy, and accordingly provide a free supply of electricity to those in need. The process of asking and giving the people a choice to opt for subsidised or non-subsidised electricity will begin very soon. Following this procedure, only those people who opt for the subsidy will be provided with it starting on 1st October 2022.”
