Bengaluru, Karnataka – BJP MLA Dr. CN Ashwath Narayan has launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka power department, accusing it of being a “corruption den” in light of the alleged irregularities surrounding the smart meter contract. Speaking out against the installation of smart meters, Narayan claimed that the contract has been awarded with vested interests, alleging that several high-ranking officials are involved in a major scandal worth over Rs. 15,000 crores.
In a press conference, Dr. Narayan outlined his concerns regarding the implementation of the smart meter scheme in the state. “The power department has become a corruption den… The Smart meter contract has only vested interests,” Narayan said, stressing that the scheme was being misused for the benefit of a select few rather than serving the public’s best interests.
The BJP leader also criticized the state government for prioritizing the installation of smart meters for new customers while neglecting to install them for existing customers. “Before installing the meter for future customers, they have to install it for the existing ones,” Narayan said, pointing to what he claimed was a delay in upgrading the meters for current users.
Narayan also highlighted the central government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), which was designed to improve the power distribution sector across the country. “The central government came up with the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), which has not been implemented in Karnataka. There are Rs. 3 lakh crores which are not utilised by the state government,” he revealed, accusing the state government of failing to leverage central funds for the development of the power sector.
Further intensifying his allegations, Narayan claimed that the cost of the smart meters being purchased was inflated. “The rate of the smart meters is 10 times more than what is quoted… This is a daylight robbery,” he said, accusing those in charge of the project of overpricing the meters for personal gain.
The MLA went on to suggest that several ministers and senior IAS officers are involved in the corruption, referring to the scandal as a massive financial wrongdoing that could exceed Rs. 15,000 crores in value. “Many ministers and IAS officers are involved in this scandal… This scandal is worth more than Rs. 15,000 crores,” Narayan stated, calling for immediate action.
Narayan also called on Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai to take accountability for the situation, stating that the CM was fully aware of the corruption but was sitting “quietly.” He further demanded the resignation of the state’s power minister and the immediate cancellation of the smart meter contract. “The power minister must resign, and the contract must be withdrawn,” he concluded.
The accusations have sparked a heated debate in Karnataka’s political circles, with the opposition calling for a full inquiry into the alleged scandal. The state government has yet to respond officially to these serious allegations, but the controversy is expected to intensify in the coming days.
