Delhi CM Orders Special Audit to Ensure Pension Transparency

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has called for a special audit of power companies to investigate the pension surcharge issue affecting Delhi Vidyut Board (DVB) pensioners. The audit by CAG-approved auditors aims to bring transparency, accountability, and clarity to the pension funding process, benefiting over 20,000 retirees.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has ordered a special audit of power companies to address the pension surcharge issue, an official statement disclosed on Wednesday.

The audit, to be conducted by auditors approved by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), aims to ensure greater transparency in the pension processes of the Delhi Vidyut Board (DVB), the statement revealed.

Power consumers currently pay a pension surcharge of seven per cent in their monthly bills, calculated as a percentage of the fixed and energy cost portion of the bill. Atishi emphasized that the government is committed to the welfare of pensioners, with the audit expected to bring accountability and clarity to pension funding and distribution, ensuring that retirees receive the support they deserve.

The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has been directed to audit all electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) in the capital to protect the pension benefits of over 20,000 DVB retirees and enhance transparency.

The audit's primary goal is to track funds collected as pension surcharges and ensure their proper utilization for the funding of pensions and related benefits for retired DVB employees.

Ensuring the well-being of DVB pensioners is a top priority, Atishi stated, noting the audit will bring much-needed transparency to the pension process. She reiterated that the government is committed to safeguarding the interests of pensioners who have served Delhi for decades, adding that the audit will also assess the regular funding needs of the pension trust.

(With inputs from agencies.)