Karnataka power rates increase effective April 1, 2025

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has raised electricity rates for consumers in the state. Starting April 1, 2025, residents will pay an extra 36 paise for each unit of power they use. Karnataka's Minister Sharan Prakash Patil responded to the increase, stating it will not impact the average citizen. He emphasized that the Gruha Jyothi scheme, which provides up to 200 units of free electricity, remains unchanged. Patil accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misleading the public by suggesting the increase will affect low-income families. He stated that the rate hike only applies to users consuming more than 200 units. The BJP has criticized the ruling Congress party over the rate hike. Shanthi Kumar, the party’s state treasurer, expressed concern on social media, stating that the Congress government is adding financial burdens to citizens. He claimed that costs for various essentials have grown under Congress rule. BJP state president BY Vijayendra also spoke out against the government, arguing that residents have faced multiple price hikes recently.