Guwahati: In a surprise move, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced the installation of individual prepaid meters in all government quarters, including those occupied by ministers and senior officials.
This decision comes after learning that a “very nominal” monthly power bill was being deducted from their salaries, suggesting they were benefiting from subsidized electricity.
“During my recent interactions with officials from the Power department, I was informed for the first time about this practice,” Sarma said in a tweet on Sunday.
“Immediately, I instructed the department to install individual prepaid meters in every government quarter, including residences in the ministerial colony,” he added.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the aim of this measure is to ensure transparency and eliminate any possibility of subsidized power being enjoyed by government employees.
“This will ensure responsible usage of electricity and eliminate any ambiguity regarding power bills,” Sarma added.
It is unclear how many government quarters will be affected by this decision. However, it is expected to impact hundreds of residences, including those occupied by ministers, bureaucrats, and other high-ranking officials.
The Power Department is yet to announce the deadline for installing the prepaid meters. However, it is likely to happen within the next few months.