Kangana Ranaut’s Electricity Bill Controversy Escalates
The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) has responded to allegations made by Mandi BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut regarding inflated electricity bills. Ranaut claimed she received a bill of nearly ₹1 lakh for her Manali home, despite not residing there. In a swift rebuttal, HPSEBL highlighted her history of delayed payments and defended the bill’s accuracy.
HPSEBL Addresses Ranaut’s Claims
On Wednesday, HPSEBL Managing Director Sandeep Kumar clarified the details surrounding the electricity bill issued to Kangana Ranaut. The bill, amounting to ₹90,384 and dated March 22, 2025, included outstanding dues of ₹32,287 and reflected electricity usage for January and February 2025. Kumar emphasized that the domestic connection is registered in Ranaut’s name for her property in Simsa village, Manali, which has a connected load of 94.82 kW—significantly higher than the average household consumption.
Kumar also pointed out that Ranaut had a history of late payments, with previous bills totaling ₹82,061 for the period from October to December 2024 being settled only on January 16, 2025. The subsequent bill for January and February was paid on March 28, 2025. Additionally, he noted that Ranaut benefits from government subsidies on her electricity usage, including a subsidy of ₹700 for February 2025.
Chief Minister Responds to Allegations
In response to Ranaut’s accusations, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu dismissed her statements as unworthy of serious consideration. Currently in Gujarat, Sukhu remarked, “I don’t take her statements seriously. She frequently makes such comments.” This statement reflects the government’s stance on the issue, suggesting that Ranaut’s claims may be politically motivated.
Naresh Chauhan, the principal media adviser to the Chief Minister, echoed this sentiment, stating that Ranaut’s comments are an attempt to divert attention from her responsibilities as an MP. He labeled her claims as “baseless and headline-driven,” reinforcing the government’s position against the allegations made by the actress.
Kangana Ranaut’s Political Critique
During a public meeting in the Jarol assembly constituency, Ranaut criticized the Congress party, referencing major scandals prior to 2014, such as the 2G, coal, and fodder scams. She praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, asserting that he has maintained a spotless record, contrasting it with the blemishes of past administrations. Her remarks aimed to bolster her political stance while addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding her electricity bill.
Attempts to obtain a response from Ranaut’s team regarding the HPSEBL’s statements went unanswered, leaving the situation unresolved. The ongoing exchange highlights the intersection of politics and personal grievances in the public sphere, particularly as Ranaut continues to navigate her dual roles as a politician and a public figure.
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