Harish Rao Slams Congress Over Telangana Power Tariff Hike, Privatisation Fears

BRS leader and former Telangana minister T. Harish Rao on Monday strongly opposed the reported hike in electricity charges in Telangana, stating that people need relief during the festive season but are instead burdened with higher power bills. He also alleged that the Congress government is planning to privatise key power utilities, including TG-Transco, TG-Genco, Singareni Collieries, and the power distribution companies (Discoms), by diluting 26% of TG-Transco.

The criticism comes amid reports that the state government has proposed to offload a 26% stake in TG-Transco, a move that Rao claims is a precursor to full privatisation. The BRS leader pointed out that the timing of the tariff hike, during the festive season, adds to the financial strain on common households. The Congress government has not yet officially responded to these allegations, but sources indicate that the stake dilution is part of a broader plan to bring in private investment and improve efficiency in the power sector.

If the privatisation move goes ahead, it could lead to significant changes in Telangana's power sector, potentially affecting electricity prices, employment, and service quality. The opposition BRS has vowed to protest against any such move, and trade unions have also expressed concerns. The development is likely to become a major political flashpoint in the state, with implications for the upcoming elections. The government is expected to clarify its stance in the coming days.