Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar on Thursday defended the recently approved annual electricity tariff hike of 4% for five consecutive financial years (2025“2029), calling it “reasonable” and claiming that Goans still pay less for power compared to other states.
But how can Dhavalikar call this hike reasonable when the Goa Electricity Department continues to give some of the most unreliable services to consumers? Even after 64 years of Goa’s liberation, the State still cannot ensure an uninterrupted 24x7 power supply without constant fluctuations and power cuts.
Dhavalikar also said that the increase was not in the State government’s control since tariffs are decided by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) under Union Ministry norms. This claim is misleading because the JERC takes a final decision only after receiving a proposal from the State government. So, the State cannot simply wash its hands of responsibility.
Perhaps it’s time for the “andh-bhakts” of the ruling BJP government to celebrate yet another “festival” ” maybe an “Electricity Bill Hike Utsav” ” just like the “GST saving festival.” They can light crackers, hold rallies, praise their leaders, and chant “Modi ji aap aage badho, hum phir bhi aapke saath hain.” After all, their “achhe din” seem to now include paying more for electricity while staying silent. Viva Goenkaar!
