Shimla
Electricity bills of tenants in Himachal Pradesh have increased sharply after the state government limited power subsidy benefits to only two electricity meters linked with one ration card. The decision has affected families living in rented houses, especially in towns and cities where multiple tenants stay in a single building.
Many tenants allege they are now being charged full electricity tariffs while landlords continue to receive subsidised power on their own connections. Consumers say monthly bills have risen significantly in recent weeks, putting extra financial burden on middle-class and working families.
The issue surfaced after the electricity board’s KYC and subsidy verification drive. Several consumers have also complained about confusion in meter linking and subsidy eligibility.
Under the current policy, domestic consumers using limited electricity units continue to receive subsidy benefits, but only on selected meters connected to one ration card. Additional connections are reportedly being billed at normal commercial or non-subsidised domestic rates.
The matter has triggered resentment among tenants, with many demanding that the government review the policy and extend relief to rented households as well.
