The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), in its poll plank, has promised free electricity to nearly 90 per cent of the families in Odisha to lure the voters. However, questions are being raised on how far this is practicable in reality and how many people will benefit from it. The opposition parties and the Odisha Electricity Consumers’ Association have denounced the idea. As per the BJD announcement, consumers using up to 100 units of electricity per month are entitled to a complete waiver. Those using 100 to 150 units monthly will get a waiver of 50 units and those using over 150 units per month will get no relief. As per official data, the number of consumers using up to 100 units in Odisha is 55 lakh, who are paying Rs 2.82 per unit. Under such a scenario, the Oppn has questioned how 90% people will avail free electricity. Similarly, BJP’s Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi alleged that the state government is selling electricity at Rs 2.52 per unit to a private company in Tamil Nadu, but consumers in the state are paying Rs 2.82 per unit. Consumers have alleged that using a fan and a bulb is enough to consume 100 units. For those using other equipment, free electricity is just a dream. Therefore, questions have been raised, whether this scheme is actually for the consumers or just a poll gimmick? Years ago, the governments in Delhi, Punjab, Karnataka and Telangana had made provision of free electricity for up to 200 units. However, the way Odisha has announced to implement this for 90% consumers has raised many eyebrows.