Guwahati: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a reduction in electricity tariffs, offering consumers relief ahead of the summer season.
Sharing the news on X, Sarma wrote, “It’s April – temperatures will increase but your bijli bill will decrease. Beginning today, families in Assam will see a drop of Rs. 1 per unit in electricity bills along with a rebate at the end of the year.”
He also clarified that this was not an April Fool’s joke.
Meanwhile, the installation of smart electric meters has sparked controversy between the ruling party and the opposition.
Opposition leaders claim these meters generate inflated electricity bills, causing financial strain on the public, an allegation the state government has denied.
Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi accused the government of burdening people with excessive power bills through smart meters and called for their removal.
Opposition legislators, including Congress members, recently staged a protest in the Assembly against their implementation.
Defending the initiative, Minister Pijush Hazarika stated that smart meters have been installed across households for the past year without significant complaints.
He argued that higher electricity bills during summer are a common occurrence and not necessarily linked to the new meters.
To address concerns, Hazarika suggested that opposition MLAs install two meters simultaneously in their residences for a month to compare readings and verify any discrepancies.
