No Intention to Burden AP with High Electricity Bills: Minister

The minister criticised the previous administration for poorly advised decisions that led to a significant decline in Discom performance. He claimed that Discom debts have surged over the past five years, alleging that Jagan Mohan Reddy increased electricity bills nine times in that period under the guise of clearing Discom debts. In contrast, Ravi Kumar noted that electricity charges remained unchanged throughout N. Chandrababu Naidu's term.

Ravi Kumar highlighted that debts had risen by 79 per cent during the YSRC regime, leaving Discoms in a dire state where they cannot function even with additional loans. He mentioned that Rs 34,954 crores remain outstanding, including subsidies and other dues from the previous government, with the YSRC repeatedly borrowing to settle Discom debts.

The minister criticised the decline in Discom performance since Jagan Mohan Reddy assumed office, noting that the central government’s rating of Discoms fell from 'A' to lower categories (B, C, D). He pointed out that even during the state's bifurcation, Discoms had an 'A' rating due to policy decisions, and that the interest rates on loans have risen as a result of the lower rating.

Ravi Kumar praised The chief Minister for his track record in strengthening the power system and managing electricity. He expressed hope for an 'A+' rating in future assessments and assured that the results of their efforts would be visible in the coming days.