Jammu & Kashmir News : PDP Protests in Pulwama Proposed 6.83% Power Tariff Hike, Seeks Fulfilment of Election Promises

Mushtaq Pulwama State Chief

Pulwama, August 27 : The Pulwama unit of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday staged a strong protest at the district headquarters against the proposed 6.83 per cent increase in electricity tariffs in Jammu and Kashmir, demanding that the government immediately withdraw the proposed hike and honour the commitments made to the people during the elections. The protest was led by PDP District President Ghulam Mohammad Shahoori with a number of party workers and supporters participating in the demonstration. The protesters raised slogans against the proposed increase in power tariffs and expressed concern that the move would further burden ordinary households already struggling with rising prices and mounting economic pressures.

The protest comes against the backdrop of the proposed revision of electricity tariffs in Jammu and Kashmir, under which an average increase of 6.83 per cent is proposed from September 1. While the authorities have maintained that the revision is necessary to address financial losses in the power sector and improve its sustainability, the proposal has drawn criticism from political parties and sections of the public. The PDP protesters argued that increasing electricity tariffs at a time when people are already facing inflation and economic hardships would place an additional burden on domestic consumers, small businesses, farmers and other sections dependent on affordable and reliable electricity. Addressing the media during the protest, PDP District President Ghulam Mohammad Shahoori said that the demonstration was aimed at reminding the National Conference-led government of the promises made to the people during the electoral campaign. Shahoori said that the proposed tariff hike was contrary to the expectations raised among the people during the elections, particularly the promise of providing 200 units of free electricity. He maintained that instead of increasing the financial burden on consumers, the government should take concrete measures to fulfil its commitments and provide relief to ordinary citizens.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have already been facing serious economic difficulties. At a time when the cost of essential commodities and household expenses is continuously increasing, any increase in electricity tariffs will further strain the budgets of common families,” Shahoori said.He alleged that the proposed increase would disproportionately affect economically weaker sections and middle-class families, for whom electricity bills already constitute a significant part of their monthly household expenditure. Shahoori urged the government to engage with political parties, civil society representatives, traders, farmers and other stakeholders before taking any decision that could have a direct financial impact on the public.The protesters reiterated their demand that the proposed 6.83 per cent tariff increase be withdrawn forthwith and that the government initiate a clear roadmap for implementing the promise of 200 units of free electricity. Shahoori said PDP would continue to raise issues concerning public welfare and hold the government accountable for the commitments made to the people during the election process.