Karnal, October 23 (Praveen Walia):- The strike by electricity employees and prolonged power cuts in Haryana have increased the difficulties of the general public. Households, shops and businesses are all being affected. Divyanshu Budhiraja, former Lok Sabha candidate from Karnal and Congress leader, has raised sharp questions and sought accountability from Union Power Minister and sitting Karnal MP Manohar Lal Khattar and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
Budhiraja questioned how long people, who have been bearing the burden of inflation for years, would have to face the electricity crisis. In 2014, the Congress government had provided relief by reducing electricity tariffs for certain categories of domestic consumers, whereas in April 2025, electricity rates for some domestic categories in Haryana were increased. Who will answer the questions arising among consumers and employees over the growing role of private companies in electricity distribution? Will the government ensure that people are not burdened with additional costs in the name of privatisation and that employees’ interests remain protected?
Divyanshu Budhiraja said, “Manohar Lal Khattar ji, you have served as Chief Minister of Haryana, you are the sitting MP from Karnal, and today you are the Union Power Minister. Then whom should the people of Haryana approach for answers and relief from the electricity crisis? Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini must also explain when people troubled by prolonged power cuts will get relief and when employees’ demands will be resolved. The government must explain what privatisation will offer to the public and employees, because the situation must not arise where private companies reap the benefits while the common man pays the price.”
He further said that electricity is not a luxury but a basic necessity for every family. Children’s education, household activities, shopkeepers’ businesses and small industries all depend on electricity. When the power goes out, it is not just homes that are plunged into darkness; the daily routines and livelihoods of ordinary people are also affected. The government cannot ignore these hardships faced by the public.
Divyanshu Budhiraja said that it was the duty of the Opposition to become the voice of the people and demand answers from those in power. The Congress would continue to strongly raise the issues of electricity employees’ interests and the rights of ordinary consumers.
People need electricity, not excuses; relief, not prolonged power cuts; and clear answers on privatisation, not silence. The BJP government must explain where its accountability lies towards the basic needs of the people.
