CPI(M) Holds Statewide Candlelight Protests Over Kerala Power Crisis

The CPI(M) on Sunday organised statewide candlelight protests against Kerala's ongoing electricity crisis, with party leaders and workers lighting candles at party offices and outside their homes. The party accused the UDF government of “plunging the state into darkness” and criticised Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph over power shortages and load shedding.

The protests were held across Kerala at around 7 pm, with participants raising slogans against the government. The demonstrations came amid a power crisis linked to weak monsoon rains and low reservoir levels, which have affected hydropower generation in the state. The UDF government has blamed the previous LDF administration for the crisis, alleging that it scrapped a long-term power purchase agreement negotiated during the tenure of the Oommen Chandy government.

The government has also alleged that the previous administration borrowed electricity from other states during April and May under an arrangement to return the power between June and September, worsening the current shortage. Addressing reporters during the protest, senior CPI(M) leader E P Jayarajan accused the UDF government of mismanaging the power sector and creating an “artificial crisis”. He claimed that power cuts and load shedding were affecting students, hospitals, industries and commercial establishments.

Jayarajan said essential medical procedures, including surgeries, were being disrupted, while businesses and industries were struggling to function smoothly. He defended the previous LDF government's record, claiming Kerala had remained free from power cuts and load shedding during its 10-year tenure despite its dependence on hydropower.

He also rejected allegations that the LDF had cancelled a long-term power purchase agreement signed during the tenure of former UDF Electricity Minister Aryadan Mohammed. According to Jayarajan, the agreement continued under the LDF government and its cancellation was sought by the Electricity Regulatory Commission. The matter is now pending before the Supreme Court, he said.

Jayarajan criticised the Electricity Minister's appeal for prayers for rain, saying ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply was the government's responsibility. He further alleged that the power crisis was being used as a pretext for another electricity tariff hike. The CPI(M) said the candlelight protests reflected growing public anger over the government's handling of the power crisis.