CPI(M) seeks withdrawal of proposed Water Regulatory Commission

The Communist Party of India(Marxist) in Andhra Pradesh has called for the immediate cancellation of the state government's plan to create a Water Regulatory Commission. The group argues that this move would lead to the privatization of drinking and irrigation water, place an extra financial strain on citizens, and negatively impact agriculture.

CPI(M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao made these claims in a press release, stating that the government intends to introduce the commission right after the local body elections, despite public disapproval. He further explained that the previously established Electricity Regulatory Commission failed to safeguard consumers, instead facilitating recurring power tariff hikes, approval of questionable power purchase agreements, and additional true-up charges.

Rao claimed that the proposed water regulator would transform drinking and irrigation water into a commercial product, granting private and multinational corporations control over rivers and reservoirs. He also criticized the World Bank and the Union government for pressuring Andhra Pradesh to implement reforms in the water sector over several years, but successive governments hesitating due to strong opposition from farmers.

Additionally, Rao criticized the state government's G.O. 160, issued during the local body election period, which proposed meters for rural drinking water schemes and the collection of user charges based on consumption. The order was reportedly removed from the government's website following criticism. Rao urged the public to oppose the proposed commission and instead seek relief amid drought concerns, consecutive cyclones, and rising prices of essential commodities.