The Power Minister and Electricity Department staff are adamant that the inflated electricity bills charges are correct as per increased consumption during the lockdown period.
Let us assume that they are right and the multitude of Goans are foolishly protesting and creating a ruckus.
A few days back, a person voiced his woes in a video on social media. He allegedly claimed he was running a guest house and received a bill for Rs 15,000 during the lockdown period while he used to receive an average bill of Rs 5,000 when it was operational.
The Electricity Department needs to investigate this one particular case and declare their findings publicly and close this controversy once and for all. However, if there is merit in the people’s agitation, then compensation is due. One cannot expect a refund from this cash starved government.
The Electricity Department can make amends by billing the entire units on the lowest slab in the next billing period. This will restore some of the credibility and goodwill for the government. On the lighter side, the common man’s financial woes would have increased if not for the frequent daily power cuts.

