CPI(M) faults govt.’s claims on reduction in power tariffs

The CPI(M) has urged the State government to focus on addressing the problems of farmers, workers and employees instead of prioritising corporate interests and land-related projects.

Addressing a press conference here on Thursday, party State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao alleged that the government had imposed heavy burdens on consumers through electricity policies while failing to disclose the full financial implications of power purchase agreements. He demanded transparency regarding the costs involved in bringing power from Rajasthan under agreements linked to the Adani-SECI arrangement and questioned the government’s claims of reducing power tariffs.

The CPI(M) leader accused the government of misleading the public by highlighting marginal reductions in electricity charges after imposing larger financial burdens through previous revisions. He also questioned why power tariffs were not being reduced despite assurances made before the elections.

Raising concerns over the plight of tobacco farmers in Prakasam district, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said market prices had fallen sharply despite assurances from the Chief Minister that farmers would receive remunerative rates. He alleged that growers were suffering heavy losses and urged both the State and Central governments to intervene in the market to protect farmers’ interests.

He also criticised restrictions on the supply of urea to tenant farmers, claiming that many cultivators were being forced to purchase fertilizers from the black market. The government should ensure adequate fertilizer supply to all eligible farmers, he said.

On transport policy, Mr. Srinivasa Rao opposed the move to hand over electric buses to private operators, arguing that the vehicles should remain under the management of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC). He further condemned the privatisation of municipal services and assets, extending CPI(M)’s support to ongoing protests by municipal workers, employees and teachers.

He also demanded a judicial inquiry into the alleged Sai Krishna custodial death case, stating that only an independent investigation could bring out the truth.