Extend The Amnesty Scheme, But Fix The System

The government’s indication that it is examining the reintroduction or extension of the power amnesty scheme is welcome, but it must be pursued with compassion and prudence. The scheme, which concluded on March 31, 2026, offered domestic consumers a genuine lifeline—clear your principal dues, and the accumulated interest is waived. For thousands of families burdened by mounting electricity arrears, this was not a luxury but a necessity. The Chief Minister’s concern that repeated amnesties could undermine the culture of timely bill payment is valid. No system can function if consumers learn to wait for periodic waivers instead of paying on time. However, the answer is not to abandon the scheme altogether, but to make it smarter and more targeted. The government should consider a two-pronged approach. First, extend the amnesty scheme, but with clearly defined eligibility criteria that prioritise genuine defaulters—households below the poverty line, families facing medical emergencies, and those with small, recoverable arrears. Second, and more importantly, address the root causes of non-payment. Many consumers do not pay because bills are inaccurate, metering is faulty, or billing disputes remain unresolved. No amnesty can fix a system that generates incorrect bills. Additionally, the government must improve the efficiency of its revenue collection. Amnesty schemes should be accompanied by stronger enforcement against wilful defaulters, particularly commercial and industrial consumers who can afford to pay but choose not to. The electricity sector cannot survive on a cycle of arrears, amnesty, and arrears again. A one-time extension, coupled with genuine reforms in metering, billing, and dispute resolution, would be a pragmatic step. But if amnesty becomes an annual ritual, it will erode the very discipline the Chief Minister rightly wants to protect. Extend the scheme—but use this opportunity to fix what is broken. Compassion for the poor must be matched by accountability for the system.