R. Ashok Accuses Karnataka Leaders of Ignoring Power Surge

Bengaluru, September 12 – In a forceful speech at the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, opposition stalwart R. Ashok accused the state’s top officials of turning a blind eye to an escalating electricity demand. He targeted Chief Minister D.K. Shivkumar and Energy Minister K.J. George, alleging that their inaction has left the entire state shrouded in darkness.

Ashok pointed out that the power requirement has ballooned to nearly 20,000 megawatts, a figure that dwarfs the government’s modest procurement of just 200 megawatts from external sources. He questioned why the administration failed to anticipate the shortfall despite early indicators of a weak southwest monsoon.

The opposition leader emphasized that the lack of proactive measures has resulted in regular load‑shedding, especially after 6:30 p.m., disrupting daily routines. Farmers are unable to irrigate fields, businesses are forced to halt operations, and students cannot study after sunset.

He warned that if the government does not take decisive steps immediately, the mounting frustration among citizens could translate into a severe electoral backlash for the ruling party.