Energy Minister KJ George dismissed allegations of a scam in the state’s smart meter project, which is being implemented by Uttar Pradesh-based Rajashree Electricals. The project, which involves fixing the cost of each smart meter at Rs 4,998 and a monthly service charge of Rs 75, has come under scrutiny from the BJP and JDS, who alleged a Rs 15,568-crore scam.
George responded, assuring that if any irregularity or proof of wrongdoing is found, the government would halt the project and cancel the tenders. He clarified that Rajashree Electricals is not a blacklisted company and the two-year ban imposed on the company by the Uttar Pradesh government had expired by the time the agreement with Karnataka was signed.
He further explained that all processes had been followed in line with the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act while awarding the contract. The minister dismissed the scam allegations as politically motivated, urging opposition parties to present proof of the alleged Rs 15,000 crore scam.
The cost of the meters was set based on careful calculations, factoring in an annual addition of new consumers to the distribution networks. The advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) charge was calculated for a 10-year period. George also highlighted that Karnataka’s tendering process differed from other states, with no blanket imposition of smart meters and a choice between postpaid and prepaid options for consumers.
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