The CPI(M) blames the government’s demands to reduce electricity tariffs

CPI(M) State Secretary V. Srinivasa Rao at a press conference in Vijayawada on Thursday. | Photo credit: KVS Giri

The CPI(M) urged the state government to focus on solving the problems of farmers, workers and employees instead of favoring corporate interests and land-related projects.

Party state secretary V Srinivasa Rao said at a press conference on Thursday that the government had imposed a significant burden on consumers through the power policy, while not disclosing the full financial implications of power purchase agreements. He demanded transparency on the cost of bringing in power from Rajasthan under the Adani-SECI deal and questioned the government’s demands to reduce power tariffs.

The CPI(M) leader accused the government of misleading the public by highlighting a marginal cut in electricity charges after imposing more financial burden in previous revisions. He also questioned why electricity prices were not reduced despite assurances made before the elections.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao raised concerns over the plight of tobacco farmers in Prakasam district and said market prices had fallen sharply despite assurances from the Chief Minister that farmers would get remunerative rates. He claimed that growers had suffered heavy losses and urged both the state and central governments to intervene in the market and protect farmers’ interests.

He also criticized restrictions on the supply of urea to tenant farmers and claimed that many growers were forced to buy fertilizers on the black market. According to him, the government should ensure sufficient supply of fertilizers for all eligible farmers.

On transport policy, Mr. Srinivasa Rao opposed the move to hand over electric buses to private operators, saying the vehicles should remain under the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC). He further condemned the privatization of municipal services and assets and extended CPI(M) support to the ongoing protests by municipal employees, workers and teachers.

He also demanded a judicial inquiry into the alleged custodial death of Sai Krishna, saying that only an independent inquiry can reveal the truth.

Published – 26 Jun 2026 04:06 IST