Despite PSERC snub, PSPCL seeks vehicles for political appointees

Aman Sood

Tribune News Service

Patiala, September 23

The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has sought government vehicles for members of the Dispute Settlement Committees (DSCs) at the circle level.

Last month, the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) had refused to give financial benefits to DSCs’ nominated members who were political appointees.

In a letter, the PSPCL Chief Engineer (Commercial) has sought permission from the PSERC based on the request “forwarded by the chairperson, DSC circle-level, Muktsar, Navtej Kauni requesting for an official vehicle”.

The letter appeals to the PSERC to reconsider the demand put forward by PSPCL. There are 22 circle-level committees in Punjab and around 100 divisional committees.

“If they give (the benefit) to one, they would have to give to others despite the fact that the chairpersons would be appointed by deputy commissioners without any qualification fixed for appointment,” said a senior PSPCL official.

The PSERC, in its August order, had reduced the financial powers of these committees at the zonal, circle and divisional levels. The DSCs were established by the erstwhile PSEB for the redressal of consumer grievances.

When contacted, Director, Commercial, Surinder Pall, said he was not aware of the letter. PSPCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director KD Chaudhri could not be contacted.