EPS alleges artificial power shortage to buy electricity at higher rates

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has accused the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government of creating an artificial power shortage to purchase electricity at higher rates. Speaking to reporters at Omalur in Salem, he also criticised the government over electricity procurement costs, rising prices and its political decisions.Palaniswami expressed concern over electricity being purchased at Rs. 35 per unit, calling it a “mega corruption scheme”. He alleged that the government was procuring power at inflated rates despite the State’s power sector already facing heavy debts. He also pointed out that Andhra Pradesh had reportedly purchased electricity at Rs. 15 to Rs. 20 per unit in October. Criticising TVK’s electoral performance, Palaniswami alleged that the party had won through money power and official influence rather than a democratic process. He also claimed that Communist leaders had raised allegations of cash distribution during the by-election.
He accused the government of failing to control rising prices of rice and vegetables, adding that it lacked proper planning. He further alleged that the release of water from Mettur dam had failed to benefit farmers, as the water did not reach tail-end areas. Palaniswami also criticised TVK for inviting members of other parties to join it. He said Chief Minister Vijay had earlier criticised the DMK alliance but was now depending on the same alliance’s support to remain in power, accusing TVK of changing its stand for political advantage.