AAP to Anil Ambani: BSES performance 'atrocious'

In a letter, Delhi Power Minister Satyender Jain wrote that ADAG power companies in Delhi are fudging data to show improvement

Arvind Kejriwal led Aam Aadmi Party waged a new war against one of its power distribution companies, BSES, by asking promoter Anil Ambani to meet the government to discuss improvement in power supply services.

In a strongly worded letter addressed to Ambani, the power minister, government of NCT of Delhi, Satyender Jain said, “The performance of BSES has been atrocious.” Jain has alleged that power supply and tariff situation in areas with BSES in Delhi has worsened.

“They were handed over the responsibility of power distribution of two-thirds of Delhi in 2002. The expectation was that you will bring down tariff and install a world-class power system in the capital city. However, you have failed to do so,” said the letter dated 14 June.

It also said there are allegations of corruption and financial irregularities, including siphoning off of funds by BSES. The letter, reviewed by Business Standard, said BSES is fudging data to hide the unprecedented power outages in the city, despite surplus power availability.

The letter charges companies promoted by Ambani of enjoying “cosy relations” with previous governments. “You might have a cosy relationship with previous governments in Delhi at the expense of public interest, kindly note that the new government is fully committed to protecting the interest of public and their welfare,” said the letter.

While claiming to take strong decisions, the minister has asked Ambani to immediately meet “with a concrete road map on how you plan to improve the situation.”

The letter has been issued only to BSES and not the other private operator - Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited. BSES did not comment on the letter till the time of printing.

Delhi's power demand touched 6188 MW in May, the record highest for the country.