Rajasthan CM slams Centre for pressuring states to buy imported coal
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Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said the Centre is forcing states to buy imported coal which costs three times higher than the goods produced by Coal India. He asked the government to remove the requirement of purchasing imported coal.
He added that Rajasthan may have to pay Rs 1,736 crore if it purchases imported coal. As of now, the requirement of purchasing imported coal has been increased to 10% of the total purchase.
In a release, Gehlot quoted that the union ministry of power issued an advisory in December asking for 4% imported coal blending. "In April, it was made mandatory to buy 10%". He expressed concern over the additional burden the higher price will put on the common man.
The CM has asked the energy department officials to ensure the smooth operation of power generation units and increase production.
A day ago, he had criticised the growing communal tension in the country and pointed at the ruling BJP party. He said riots are instigated by the party that benefits from it. Commenting on the intolerance, he said democracy and the constitution help in running the country. "But, the constitution is being shredded".
He added that the BJP may be getting Hindu votes but till when? "Inflation and unemployment are at their peak," reported ANI.
He said his demand to investigate the clashes in several parts of India was ignored by Amit Shah. "If a chief minister is making a demand, the union home minister should take note. This is democracy."
