High Court Dismisses Petitions Against CAG Audit
The Delhi High Court on Monday cleared the way for a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit of power distribution companies (discoms) in the national capital by dismissing petitions that challenged the proposed exercise. The ruling removes a legal hurdle that had stalled the audit process.
Power Minister Welcomes the Decision
Delhi's Power Minister Ashish Sood welcomed the court's order, stating that it paves the way for the audit to move forward. He said the Delhi government had defended the matter before the court in the interest of electricity consumers and described the ruling as a step toward greater transparency in the power sector.
Allegations of Nexus Between Previous Government and Discoms
Sood alleged that the discoms' opposition to the audit reflected a nexus between the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and power companies, a claim that has been contested by the opposition in the past. He said the government would continue pursuing the matter and ensure that consumers are not burdened by any increase in electricity tariffs.
Next Steps for the Audit Process
The proceedings related to the CAG audit can now be taken up by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu. The discoms were reached out for comments but no response was received.
