UP Energy Minister Sparks Outrage After Ignoring Power Crisis Complaints, Video Goes Viral

A video of Uttar Pradesh Energy Minister AK Sharma has gone viral, showing him dismissing public complaints about electricity shortages with a victory sign and chants of 'Jai Shri Ram' before leaving the scene. The incident occurred on Wednesday during his visit from Jaunpur to Sultanpur, drawing sharp criticism for what many have called an insensitive response.

Traders Plead for Power Relief in Surapur

The controversy unfolded in Surapur town, where local traders and officials from the Vyapar Mandal stopped the minister to highlight severe electricity shortages. According to them, the town is receiving power for only 3–4 hours daily. A notice reportedly put up by the SDO states that electricity will be available only from 11 AM to 3 PM — a situation deeply affecting local businesses.

During the interaction, the traders presented their grievances to the minister, but instead of addressing them, AK Sharma made a victory gesture and left the area chanting, "Jai Shri Ram, Jai Bajrang Bali." The incident was caught on camera and has since gone viral across social media platforms, with many criticizing the minister’s apparent disregard for public concerns.

Memorandum Submitted with Four Key Demands

Led by Surapur Vyapar Mandal President VK Agrahari Vijay, the traders submitted a four-point memorandum to the minister. Their demands included:

Upgradation of the local electricity substation.

Replacement of old and damaged electrical wires.

Increasing the capacity of 5-MVA transformers in Surapur and Karaudikala to 10-MVA.

Separation of the market feeder from the rural feeder to ensure uninterrupted power for commercial areas.

Public Reactions Pour In

The video has triggered widespread backlash online, with users accusing the minister of being unresponsive to basic civic issues. Many called for accountability, noting that power supply is a fundamental service, especially in peak summer months.

The Energy Minister has not yet issued any public statement addressing the controversy.