Thiruvananthapuram, 19 July (H.S.): Kerala Power Minister Sunny Joseph on Sunday blamed the state's electricity shortage on the previous Left government's decision to cancel a long-term power purchase agreement, alleging that the move has forced the current administration to procure costly electricity during peak demand hours.

The minister said Kerala has adequate electricity availability during the daytime, but the real challenge arises at night when consumption surges. He explained that while power can be purchased at extremely low rates during the day, the state is often compelled to buy electricity at several times that cost after sunset to meet demand. According to him, this has significantly increased the financial burden on the government.

Joseph said those protesting the present power situation should direct their criticism at the previous Pinarayi Vijayan-led government, which, he alleged, scrapped a long-term agreement that would have ensured a stable supply of low-cost electricity. He claimed the earlier administration neither honoured nor implemented the contract, resulting in the present difficulties. Despite the constraints, the government is making every effort to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, including during the FIFA World Cup final, for which necessary instructions have already been issued, he added.

Responding to criticism from former Power Minister M.M. Mani, Joseph questioned the former minister's handling of the power sector during his tenure. He said Kerala had also witnessed power restrictions under the previous government, pointing out that electricity controls were imposed during April as well. He maintained that the current administration was taking all possible steps to manage demand while coping with rising procurement costs.

The minister also commented on the controversy surrounding the appointment of government pleaders. He said he has been discussing the matter directly with the Chief Minister and that all policy issues are being addressed through mutual consultation within the government. While no separate committee has examined the issue, Joseph said the Kerala Students Union (KSU) had conveyed its concerns to him, which he had subsequently brought to the Chief Minister's attention. He added that party-related concerns should be raised and resolved within the party's internal forums.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman