Guwahati, Apr 1: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a ₹1 per unit reduction in electricity bills for households across the state, effective immediately. The decision comes as a relief to consumers ahead of the approaching summer season, when power consumption is expected to rise.

Taking to social media, CM Sarma assured residents, writing, “It’s April – temperatures will increase but your bijli bill will decrease. Beginning today, families in Assam will see a drop of ₹1 per unit in electricity bills along with a rebate at the end of the year.” He also emphasized, “PS: This isn’t an April Fool Prank.”

While the announcement was welcomed by many, the ongoing issue of smart electric meters remains contentious. Opposition leaders, including Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi, have raised concerns over the accuracy of the new meters, alleging that they are causing inflated bills. However, the state government has denied these claims, asserting that the smart meters are error-free.

Minister Pijush Hazarika defended the smart meter installation, stating that there have been no significant complaints from the public. He attributed the increase in power bills during summer to higher electricity usage, not to any flaws in the new meters. Hazarika also invited opposition legislators to compare two meters side by side at their residences to verify the accuracy of the readings.