And honestly,this is not looking like small technical change only.
During press conference in Vijayawada,CPI(M) State Secretary V. Srinivasa Rao and other party members said Andhra Pradesh government's move could put extra burden on consumers and slowly push power distribution toward privatization in state.
Their main objection is that APRAPL is being described by critics as a "deemed DISCOM" which exists only on paper . They are saying it does not have proper infrastructure,independent power distribution network or even basic operational set-up like transformers as required under Electricity Act,2003 .
And this is where farmers come directly into picture.
CPI(M) is arguing that agricultural consumers will not really benefit from separate entity like this . According to party,existing power supply arrangements are already being handled by three state DISCOMs,and shifting agriculture supply to separate agricultural DISCOM may disturb current system badly.
Few things standing out in this whole issue:
- APRAPL could increase costs for rural and urban consumers .
- CPI(M) fears this proposal is step toward privatizing power distribution in Andhra Pradesh .
- Party is asking consumers and farmers to submit objections before regulatory deadline.
CPI(M) leaders also said uninterrupted electricity supply to agricultural pumpsets and irrigation schemes should continue through existing DISCOMs . Their bigger worry is that free power currently being given to farmers may get affected if supply responsibility is moved into separate structure.
At same time,Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) is inviting public objections and suggestions on APRAPL proposal . So CPI(M) is trying to mobilize consumers and farmers before process moves ahead.
And tbh,they are also connecting this issue with another major power controversy. Party leaders are demanding quick hearing on power purchase agreement involving Adani Solar and other stakeholders,claiming it could cause over ₹1 lakh crore in losses to state over next 25 years.
So this fight is not just about one new company name on paper . It is about who controls power distribution,who pays extra cost,and whether farmers will continue getting same support or not…
