YSR Telangana Party President YS Sharmila has strongly criticised the TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh for imposing what she described as unjust and excessive electricity charges on the public. Speaking at a press conference, Sharmila accused the state government of prioritising revenue collection over the welfare of citizens and warned that such measures are causing serious distress among middle- and low-income families.
According to Sharmila, the recent hike in power tariffs has come as a shock to lakhs of households, with electricity bills rising significantly even for moderate usage. She alleged that the government failed to explain the rationale behind the hike and accused it of ignoring the financial burden being placed on the people.
Sharmila further claimed that under the previous government led by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, electricity charges were kept within reasonable limits and subsidies were offered to protect vulnerable sections. She contrasted this with what she called the anti-people policies of the current administration, which, she said, is acting in the interest of private companies rather than the general public.
The YSRTP leader also questioned the transparency of the tariff-setting process. She demanded that the state electricity regulatory body release detailed data and hold public consultations before approving any future changes. She urged the government to immediately withdraw the revised rates and explore ways to improve the efficiency of power distribution without penalising consumers.
In her address, Sharmila pointed out that rising electricity charges add to the already high cost of living. She stated that with fuel prices, food inflation, and school fees also increasing, the additional pressure from utility bills is becoming unbearable for many families. She added that farmers and small business owners, who rely on electricity for irrigation and operations, are also being affected and may suffer financially if the issue is not addressed quickly.
The TDP-led government has defended the new power tariffs by stating that the hike is necessary to cover the cost of power generation and ensure uninterrupted supply. Officials have claimed that the revision is based on rising input costs, including fuel prices and operational expenses, and is aimed at improving the quality and stability of power infrastructure.
However, opposition parties, including YSRTP, have argued that the government should have absorbed some of the financial burden instead of passing it entirely onto consumers. They have called for a thorough review of power sector policies and demanded relief measures for low-income groups.
Public response to the tariff hike has been critical, with protests emerging in several towns and villages. Consumer rights organisations have also stepped in, demanding more accountability from electricity distribution companies.
As the controversy grows, political analysts believe that rising utility charges could become a major issue in the coming months, influencing public sentiment and political discourse in the state. YS Sharmila has announced plans to meet affected families and raise the issue across different platforms until the government addresses the matter.
