Neither UP model, nor retaliation: Kerala Power Minister defends KSEB’s action in Thiruvambadi case

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala's Power Minister K. Krishnankutty has defended the Kerala State Electricity Board's (KSEB) actions in response to the recent incident in Thiruvambadi. This comes amidst criticism faced by KSEB for disconnecting power to a residence following an incident.

The controversy began when KSEB disconnected electricity to the home of Ajmal, a former Youth Congress leader in Thiruvambadi, due to unpaid bills. Although the bill was settled subsequently, there was alleged delay in restoring the connection. On Friday, Ajmal and his associates reportedly assaulted lineman P. Prashanth and his assistant M.K. Ananthu when they attempted to restore the supply. Despite a police case being filed based on Prashanth's complaint, no arrests have been made. 

In response to the complaint, Ajmal and his associates reportedly caused vandalism at the KSEB section office on Saturday, damaging office furniture and injuring staff members. KSEB responded by ordering a further disconnection of electricity supply.

Ajmal's father, Abdul Rasak, claimed the electricity connection was under his name, implying KSEB's actions were vindictive.

The Minister defended KSEB's stance, asserting it was not retaliatory but taken to ensure employee safety. "KSEB has the authority to disconnect electricity if bills are unpaid. The response from Ajmal and associates suggests KSEB's decision was justified," he stated.

"This is neither the UP model nor retaliation. Three people were thrashed. A threat was issued that thrashing would happen again... Does anyone have the right to attack or create a ruckus due to a delay in getting a connection? The Managing Director took such action for employee safety. If an employee goes there and is attacked, who will be answerable?" he asked.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that KSEB intends to restore the electricity connection promptly.