Proposal for 50% tariff contribution to pension opposed by industries

CONSUMERS and industries strongly opposed the proposal made by Electricity Supply Corporations Limited (Escoms) to hike power tariff by 67 paise, 50% of which (35 paise) will be to contribute as pension and gratuity (P&G) of employees, recruited before 2006.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ Bengaluru

During the public hearing organised by Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) on Monday, consumers chorused their opinion that P&G should be borne by the government. They also voiced that they should not be burdened for the government's Gruha Jyothi Scheme.

An energy department official said, "All ESCOMs have sought for a uniform tariff hike of 67 paise, of which 50% will go to P&G. If KERC agrees it will be listed as a separate column in the bills generated."