Odisha BJP, Cong hit streets over Minister’s remark on frequent power cuts

Bhubaneswar: Opposition parties in Odisha today hit streets in Bhubaneswar over Energy Minister Pratap Keshari Deb’s remark on frequent power cuts that plagued the entire state during scorching summer heat.

Holding lanterns and hand fans, members of Congress’ student wing protested in front of official residence of the minister demanding his resignation over erratic power supply by TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL).

The protestors also hurled tomatoes at the minister’s residence holding him responsible for frequent power cuts during day and night hours across the state.

Meanwhile, the BJP launched massive protest from today against unscheduled power cuts in the state.

“Today, the power distribution system is beyond the control of state government. Tata Power has created a situation where the state government has lost its head,” alleged BJP’s state general secretary Prithiviraj Harichandan.

The scenario in rural areas is beyond the words. In the past, people were aware of the power cut timing during the summer. As they were in a notion that the state was facing electricity dearth, they were mentally prepared to face the power outage situation. While government claims that Odisha is a power surplus state, the Discom is disconnecting power without prior announcement. When opposed, the minister is making irresponsible statement, which is very unfortunate,” he said.

Everyone in the state, from villages to Bhubaneswar city, has been facing the unbearable situation caused by Tata Power’s power distribution system. Since the state government has lost its head, from minister to the energy department, the unilateral support is being extended to Tata, the BJP leader alleged.

He said that the party will not sit quietly. The movement that began from Bhubaneswar today will be extended to villages against the frequent power cuts as well as the Tata Power.

Recently, Energy Minister Pratap Deb had dismissed allegations of power cuts in state and cited poor infrastructure as the reason behind the power disruption.