Delhi: Govt to audit DISCOMs on pension surcharge issue

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has ordered a special audit of power companies to address the pension surcharge issue, official statement said.

The audit, to be conducted by auditors approved by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), is intended to enhance transparency in the pension process of the Delhi Vidyut Board (DVB), the statement said.

DISCOMs currently charge a seven per cent pension surcharge from power consumers in their monthly bills, calculated based on the fixed and energy cost portions of the bill.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of pensioners, Atishi emphasised that the well-being of DVB pensioners is a top priority. The audit is expected to increase accountability and clarify the funding and distribution of pension benefits, ensuring pensioners receive the support they are entitled to.

The chief minister has instructed the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to carry out a special audit of all electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) in the national capital to protect the pension benefits of more than 20,000 DVB pensioners and promote transparency, the statement added.

The primary aim of this audit is to monitor the funds collected through the pension surcharge and confirm their proper use for pension funding and related benefits for DVB retirees, it said.

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“The well-being of DVB pensioners is our priority. This special audit will bring transparency to the entire pension process.

“The DVB pensioners have served Delhi for decades, and now, it is our responsibility to provide better facilities for them. We will ensure their interests are fully safeguarded,” Atishi said.

She also highlighted that the audit will ensure accountability and clarity in pension surcharge collection, as well as assess the ongoing funding needs of the pension trust, the statement concluded.

(With inputs from PTI)