AIADMK criticizes Tamil Nadu government over power debt

Chennai: The AIADMK party criticized the state government on Thursday for the rising debt of Tangedco, the power distribution company. They pointed to increased power tariffs and financial grants. Former AIADMK minister P Thangamani questioned the government's claim of industrial growth, arguing that power demand has stayed stagnant under the DMK administration. In response, Industries Minister T R B Raja said that power demand has actually risen. Thangamani highlighted that the government has increased its revenue to 45,000 crore annually through tariff increases and subsidies. Yet, he pointed out that Tangedco still faced losses this fiscal year. He asked, "What is the reason for your loss?" Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji defended the government by detailing financial support provided to Tangedco. He noted that the DMK government offered a subsidy of 68,407 crore, which is higher than the 40,225 crore granted during AIADMK’s time in power. He also stated that AIADMK oversaw losses of 12,000 crore, while the losses under DMK were reduced to 338 crore, despite rising costs. Thangamani raised concerns about how the revised power tariffs are affecting small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). He mentioned that industrialists are asking both the state and central governments to restart the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme to help their businesses. Balaji took aim at AIADMK, criticizing them for quickly promising 24-hour power supply for agriculture before the 2021 elections but failing to deliver. Thangamani also hit back, accusing the DMK of not keeping its promise of total prohibition made during the 2016 election.