KOCHI: Members of the public slammed the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) for its inefficiencies and corrupt practices during a hearing conducted by the Regulatory Board on a proposed electricity rate hike. The public pointed out the high salaries of employees and the various rates being collected from different people.

Usually, only around 50 people participate in such public hearings. However, yesterday's sitting at Ernakulam Town Hall saw a massive turnout of around 1000 people, including women, who came to share their opinions. The massive turnout was due to a call made on social media by Adv Vinod Mathew Wilson, the state president of the Aam Aadmi Party.

The KSEB has requested a rate hike effective from July 1, 2024, to March 31, 2027. Perumbavoor native Shajahan, who argued that the proposed rate hike is unnecessary, effectively countered the board's claims by presenting figures. The commission commended him for his efforts.

Electricity Regulatory Commission chairman TK Jose, Legal Member Adv A Wilson, and Technical Member B Pradeep participated in the public hearing. Yesterday's session was the third of the four public hearings being held. The next session will be held on the 10th in Thiruvananthapuram.