KATHMANDU: Minister of Energy Kulman Ghising has publicly addressed the ongoing dispute between industrialists and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) over unpaid premium tariffs for dedicated and trunk lines.

In a Facebook post on Saturday morning, Ghising highlighted that during the period of severe load-shedding, some large industries had received uninterrupted electricity through dedicated and trunk lines.

However, he noted that these industries have yet to pay the premium charges associated with these services.

“While regular electricity bills were being paid, refusal to settle the premium fees forced the NEA to disconnect lines in accordance with the law,” Ghising claimed.

Ghising emphasized that this action is not new. He recalled that in the past, NEA attempted to recover outstanding amounts four times but faced political interference that prevented enforcement.

“I had formally requested the Electricity Regulatory Commission to recover the dues on March 24, 2025, while serving as Executive Director. On the same day, I was removed from my position,” Ghising wrote.

Reaffirming his stance, Ghising said he will continue to uphold the law and institutional integrity despite attempts to apply emotional pressure through media, social networks, and labor groups.

He warned that allowing non-payment could set a dangerous precedent, potentially encouraging tax evasion and weakening state governance.

Ghising urged industrialists to utilize installment facilities provided by NEA to clear their dues.“If anyone feels aggrieved, they are fully entitled to seek justice through judicial means,” he wrote.

He concluded by stressing that his actions are driven by law, institutional credibility, and national interest—not personal ego.

The post has sparked discussion across social media, highlighting the growing tension between NEA and some industrial sectors over tariff compliance.