I have dedicated my professional life to serving the public as a member of a government-owned electricity company in Karnataka. My colleagues and I are committed to prioritizing service over profit, ensuring that every resident and farmer has access to affordable and reliable electricity. However, the recent push towards privatisation, marked by the proposal to grant a parallel distribution license to TATA Power, threatens to upend our mission and negatively impact countless lives across the state.

The introduction of a parallel distribution license to TATA Power signifies a shift from the current model that has long prioritized community welfare over financial gains. Unlike private sector players who often prioritize profitability, government-owned electricity companies in Karnataka have focused on ensuring affordability and inclusivity. Our mission has been clear: to provide electricity that supports both individual households and the broader agricultural sector upon which our state relies heavily.

Privatization can lead to increased tariffs and uneven distribution of resources, a reality already witnessed in other regions where private companies hold significant control over electricity distribution. According to a report by the Energy and Resources Institute, privatisation often results in increased electricity prices, making it more difficult for low-income families to manage their electricity bills and placing a disproportionate burden on farmers who rely on electricity for irrigation.

Empirical evidence has shown that government-controlled utilities offer more equitable access and stable pricing. A study on rural electrification in centralized systems highlighted the stark differences in service quality and cost-control between private and public electricity providers.

By opposing the privatisation measures currently being considered, we can protect the public's interest and continue to ensure that electricity remains accessible to all, irrespective of their economic status. We urge the Karnataka government to reconsider this proposal and maintain the current model that has allowed us to successfully meet the needs of the community without bias or inflated costs.

We need to act now to preserve affordable and reliable electricity for everyone in Karnataka. Please join us in this fight to stop the privatisation of electricity distribution in our state. Sign this petition to urge our local government to prioritize the needs of its citizens over corporate interests.