The Gruha Jyothi scheme reverification process has commenced in Bengaluru, sparking concerns among tenants about potential exclusion from the free electricity benefit. The initiative, launched by the Karnataka government, aims to ensure that only eligible households continue to receive the subsidy.
Tenants face uncertainty amid reverification
Many tenants, who had applied for the scheme using their landlords' property documents, now fear being dropped from the list if they fail to provide updated verification documents. A resident from Yelahanka highlighted a specific case: he had applied under his wife’s name, but she passed away, leaving his application in limbo. “I submitted the application under my wife's name, and now she is no more. The officials are asking for her presence, which is impossible,” he said.
The reverification process requires applicants to present Aadhaar cards, electricity bills, and rental agreements. However, tenants without formal agreements or those living in shared accommodations are particularly vulnerable.
Government aims to weed out ineligible beneficiaries
According to officials, the reverification is necessary to eliminate fraudulent claims and ensure that only genuine beneficiaries avail the scheme. “We have identified several cases where ineligible individuals were receiving the subsidy. This drive will help us clean the database,” a Bescom official stated.
The scheme, which provides up to 200 units of free electricity per month, has over 1.5 crore registered households across Karnataka. The reverification is expected to be completed within three months, with door-to-door checks and online verification options.
Impact on vulnerable groups
Senior citizens, widows, and tenants without proper documentation are most at risk of exclusion. Advocacy groups have urged the government to provide a grace period and set up help desks for those facing difficulties. “Many poor families depend on this scheme. The government should ensure that genuine cases are not harassed,” said a social activist.
Bescom has assured that tenants can update their details at designated centers or through the official portal. However, critics argue that the process is cumbersome and lacks transparency.
