Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam wants Maharashtra to reduce electricity rates in Mumbai

Apparently inspired by the Delhi Government, which slashed the electricity rates by 50 percent, Congress leader Sanajy Nirupam on Wednesday stressed that Maharashtra government should also reduce the rates in Mumbai.

Addressing a press conference, Nirupam said: "We had gone both to the Ministry and power companies, but they always say that the rate of electricity is decided by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission. But the Delhi government didn't consult with the DERC (Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission) while slashing the electricity rates."

Nirupam said that he has demanded that those consuming less than 500 units of electricity should be given a relief and tariff should be reduced for such people.

"If the Delhi Government can do this, then I am sure Maharashtra Government can also do this. That's why I have written to Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan. I have demanded that the benefit from the subsidies should reach the consumers and not the companies," he said.

He added that if his demand for reduction in electricity tariff is not met, then he will launch an agitation against the government. He also demanded that an inquiry be set up to investigate the cost structure and pricing mechanism adopted by power distribution companies.

Nirupam also said that for the last couple of years, the citizens of Mumbai are upset. In last three or four years, the rates of electricity have increased three fold.

On Tuesday, Kejriwal had announced 50 percent cut in power tariff on lower slabs, delivering his second pre-poll promise, after fulfilling his commitment of free water supply to every household, within four days of assuming power.