In a move aimed at addressing the concerns of the public, the Ashok Gehlot-led government in Rajasthan has announced significant relief measures on power bills and cooking gas prices. The decision, which comes ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state, reflects the government’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people.
Under the new policy, consumers will receive free electricity up to 100 units, with a fixed rate for the next 100 units. This revised slab-wise exemption in electricity bills is a result of feedback received from the public. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot emphasized that the decision was made after observing inflation relief camps and engaging in discussions with the citizens.
The government also aims to alleviate the burden on households by significantly reducing cooking gas prices. In December last year, Mr. Gehlot had promised substantial subsidies on cooking gas, and the prices have now been slashed by over half. This will enable consumers to avail 12 cylinders a year at an affordable price of ₹500 each.
The Congress party, taking inspiration from successful schemes implemented by other states, has adapted its strategy to appeal to the people of Rajasthan. The promise of free water and electricity, similar to the Aam Aadmi Party’s initiatives in Delhi and Punjab, proved to be an electoral game-changer for the Congress in Karnataka. With the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan, the party is keen to replicate that success.
However, reports suggest that the implementation of these initiatives has encountered challenges, causing some hiccups for the government. Farmers in certain areas have refused to pay power bills, insisting that the state government should cover their expenses. Such issues will need to be addressed promptly to ensure smooth execution and to uphold the government’s commitments.
Notably, the Ashok Gehlot government has undertaken several welfare measures over the past year. It launched a comprehensive health insurance scheme, providing free medical facilities up to ₹25 lakh at government hospitals. Additionally, the minimum monthly pension was increased to ₹1,000 under the social security scheme, benefiting numerous individuals in need.
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), still recovering from its defeat in the previous election, is observing the ruling party’s predicament with satisfaction. BJP MP Pratap Simha has urged people to refrain from paying electricity bills if their consumption remains below 200 units from June 1, adding to the political dynamics surrounding this announcement.
As the election season approaches, the Ashok Gehlot government’s decision on power bills and cooking gas prices is likely to resonate with the public. It remains to be seen how these initiatives will be implemented on the ground and how they will influence the electorate’s choices in the forthcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan.
