Shillong, October 6: The Congress party has initiated protests across Assam in response to the recent increase in power tariffs imposed by the state government.
Additionally, they have made a commitment to provide free electricity for consumption up to 200 units if they assume power.
As per IANS, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi strongly criticized the state government for its reckless borrowing practices and the concerning debt situation in Assam. He highlighted the burden placed on the common public due to frequent tax hikes on various commodities.
Gogoi also pledged that, should the Congress come into power, they would ensure that the people of Assam receive a minimum of 200 units of electricity at no cost. Their aim is to prevent the accumulation of wealth by burdening the public.
Previously, the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) had issued a notification outlining a 30 paise per unit charge for domestic consumers using up to 300 units per month as Fuel and Power Purchase Price Adjustment. For those consuming 300-500 units monthly, a charge of 50 paise per unit was proposed. Furthermore, consumers using over 500 units per month were facing an additional charge of Rs. 1.29 per unit.
However, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma clarified, stating, “The information regarding the power price increase was incorrect. Electricity prices for households using up to 300 units per month will remain unchanged. Only consumers using more than 300 units and up to 500 units per month will experience a 20 paise per unit increase. Additional charges have been applied to consumers using over 500 units of electricity per month and business customers.”