‘Received Bills In Thousands’: Jharkhand Villagers Allege Govt’s Free Electricity Scheme A ‘Failure’ – News18

Last Updated:November 01, 2024, 20:15 IST

Jharkhand villagers were asked to pay Rs 100 for no-dues of outstanding electricity bill. Yet, they received bills of exorbitant amounts.

A wave of discontent is sweeping through Khaira village in Jharkhand’s Godda district, where residents condemned the government’s electricity bill waiver scheme as a dismal failure. Despite promises of relief, villagers are reeling from unexpected charges following a recent initiative by the Electricity Department.

In a camp organised by officials, villagers were asked to pay Rs 100 to receive a no-dues certificate for their outstanding electricity bills. However, just days later, many received new bills amounting to thousands of rupees, igniting widespread anger and frustration within the community.

Local resident Ramchandra Mahato expressed his disillusionment, stating that Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s assurances of waiving electricity bills for the poor now feel like hollow promises. “What was presented as a lifeline has turned out to be a failure and cruel deception,” he lamented. “The government has shattered our hopes with these false assurances.”

During the camp, an energy representative claimed that the Rs 100 fee was necessary to issue the no-dues certificate. However, this move left villagers feeling duped, as many believed the initiative would alleviate their financial burdens. “We thought this scheme would offer us some relief, but instead, we are now faced with new bills,” said villager Rajendra Mahato, echoing the sentiments of many in the community.

The discontent is further fueled by the stark contrast between the government’s pre-election promises of free electricity and the current reality facing the villagers. Many are now grappling with unexpected financial strain as they navigate the new bills, which they were led to believe would not be forthcoming.

The sense of betrayal is palpable, and frustration is boiling over. Residents are demanding accountability from the government, threatening to take to the streets if their grievances are not addressed. They have voiced concerns over alleged corruption within the electricity department, claiming that mismanagement and deceit are exacerbating their hardships.

Location :

Jharkhand, India