Confusion Reigns Over Anti-Tariff-Hike Protests

Confusion and uncertainty reign over anti-power-tariff-hike protests, with leaders giving contradictory statements, despite the fact that the entire opposition has agreed to disagree with the government's decision to hike power charges.

While YSRCP honorary president Y S Vijayamma, along with her party leaders, began the "Current Deeksha" at the new MLAs quarters, Left-wing parties are marching forward in the protest, hand-in-hand with BJP, whose leaders are on fast at the Old MLA quarters.

TDP is also in protest mode, with Chandrababu Naidu undertaking a one-day fast yesterday in Kakinada, while other party leaders submitted a memorandum to the Governor, asking the latter to intervene, and suggest that the government roll back the increased power prices.

While all this is on, there has been resentment from within the cabinet and Congress. However, Revenue Minister Dr N Raghuveera Reddy today came in defence of the hike.

Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy, who is in Nellore, assured that the weaker sections will not be affected, and that the decision will be reviewed if necessary. He made it clear that free power cannot be provided to the second crop.

Meanwhile, a PIL was also admitted by the High Court that has challenged the hike in power charges.

There is resentment in the entire opposition, as well as a section within the Congress. It remains to be seen how the high command will change the situation, if at all it does. (INN)