On Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched a helpline number for power consumers in the city to continue getting government subsidies on electricity bills. Kejriwal said that the subsidy will only be extended to those who apply for it, starting from October 2022.
The Chief Minister said, “It was the demand of a section of people that the power subsidy should not be forced and people should be provided an option. We are launching the scheme to opt for power subsidy. “
He also said, “Consumers will get a form with their next electricity bill, and they can submit the form at their designated collection center for paying electricity bills. People can also give a missed call on 7011311111. You will get a link and form on WhatsApp. Fill in this form and you can opt for a subsidy. People can also type “Hi” on this WhatsApp number and they will get the form. “
Kejriwal said that the mobile numbers that are registered with the electricity connections will also get forms from the government to opt for subsidy. He added, “Within three days of filing this form, people will get a confirmation email or SMS about their registration to continue for subsidy.”
He also added, “Those who register in November will have to pay the October bill and will be able to avail the subsidy from November. In whichever month you apply, you will get subsidy from that month onwards, but they will have to pay a bill for the preceding months. “
The government will launch an awareness campaign to inform people about the option to opt-in. He added that the government has made a robust technical system which is not expected to crash for 47 lakh people.
Kejriwal said that the subsidy is not being withdrawn but an option is being provided as per the demand of some people.