In a significant move aimed at easing electricity access for residents, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Wednesday that the government has instructed power distribution companies (Discoms) not to require no objection certificates (NOCs) from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for new power connections in 1,731 unauthorized colonies. This decision is expected to streamline the process for residents living in these areas, allowing them to obtain electricity without unnecessary obstacles.
Atishi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for creating barriers to electricity access, stating, “For the last year, people in unauthorized colonies have been running from pillar to post to get power connections because the DDA of the BJP-led central government last year issued an order saying people in unauthorized colonies will get electricity connection only when they get NOCs clarifying that their areas do not fall under the land pooling zones.”
The Chief Minister alleged that the NOC requirement had led to a culture of bribery, where residents were forced to pay bribes to obtain the necessary documents. “People who were not giving bribes were unable to get electricity connection,” she claimed, asserting that those who complied with the corrupt practices had been able to secure their NOCs.
In response to these challenges, Atishi stated, “The Delhi government has decided that in 1,731 colonies, there is no need to obtain any NOC for getting the electricity connection. Anyone living in these colonies can apply for an electricity connection, and within 15 days, they will get electricity meters.” This announcement aims to alleviate the burden on residents and ensure a smoother process for obtaining power.
Atishi further accused the DDA of troubling residents of unauthorized colonies, reaffirming the commitment of the Delhi government, under the leadership of former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, to support these communities. “A clear-cut order has been given to the Discoms. Now, people can easily get electricity connections,” she added.
Reflecting on the progress made in these areas, Atishi noted that unauthorized colonies had been in a dire state a decade ago, lacking basic infrastructure. However, she emphasized that the Aam Aadmi Party government has made significant strides in providing essential facilities and improving the quality of life for residents. “These colonies have seen a lot of development and improvement in their quality of life,” she stated, underscoring the government’s efforts to enhance living conditions.
As the new directive takes effect, it remains to be seen how quickly residents will be able to secure their electricity connections without the previous hurdles posed by the NOC requirement.
