Shivakumar responds positively to concerns about privatization of power supply

DK Shivakumar Photo Credit: File photo

Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has responded positively to the objections raised by the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Federation of Employees’ Unions and Associations against the entry of private players entering power distribution.

Tata Power has applied for electricity distribution license in several districts of the state. It is currently pending with the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC).

After being felicitated by the associations, he said officials from all the Escoms and the Minister of Energy appealed to him not to privatize the Ministry of Energy. “Though I have accepted your request, I will discuss it in the cabinet and come to a final decision,” he said.

“I am aware that private companies are involved in power distribution in other states like Odisha, Maharashtra and Delhi. But I also know very well that the infrastructure for generation, distribution and supply of power in Karnataka has been built by the Power Department workers with the support of the state government for more than 50 years. Private players want to enter this ecosystem only to make money and profits,” he said.

He also pointed out that it was the BJP that brought in laws that allowed for the privatization of electricity distribution and asked the power department staff to question the BJP as well.

Power Minister KJ George also said that there is no proposal to privatize electricity distribution in Karnataka. He said: “Our power department is strong and capable of delivering reliable power to consumers. Our government stands by you (employees). Appropriate directions have already been issued regarding privatization and that is why the Escoms have objected to KERC.”

Published – 29 Jun 2026 21:23 IST