Trade bodies and industries from across the State have threatened to go on strike and stop all production activities if their power tariff-related grievances are not solved. While some industries have demanded a complete rollback of the hike, the others have placed several demands before the government, which include the reduction of electricity taxes from 9% to 3% as well as hassle free 50 paise concession on tariff for industries and Micro and Small Enterprises (MSME).
On Thursday, a meeting was held between Energy Minister K.J. George, other officials of the Energy Department, and the office-bearers of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI). Gopal Reddy, president, FKCCI, said the Minister assured them that the 50 paise per unit rebate for LT-5 consumers who possess Udyoga Mitra certificates would soon be provided.
“There is demand from districts is to rollback the tariff order. But after discussions, they have agreed to wait for a few days to give the government time to implement the 50 paise rebate. With Fuel Adjustment Costs (FAC) turning out to be a burden on industries, we have also asked the government to pay subsidy to the electricity supply companies (Escoms) for FAC. If our demands are not met in about two days, then we will resort to protests,” Mr. Reddy said.
