IOJK residents protest for free electricity amid power crisis
Srinagar: The people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have taken to the streets in a massive protest demanding free electricity across the disputed territory.
According to Kashmir Media service, the protests, which began on 9 February at Chowgan Ground, Kishtwar have quickly turned into a larger movement known as the Mission Bijli Free Movement. Protestors are voicing their long-standing demand for compensation in the form of free electricity, citing the exploitation of their land, rivers, and forests for hydropower generation. Slogans like ‘Hamari bijli humko do, muft do’ are echoing all along the streets, with locals demanding that they be granted access to the electricity generated from their own resources.
IIOJK is home to major hydroelectric projects such as Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Kwar, which generate thousands of megawatts of power for the Indian grid. Despite contributing heavily to India’s power supply, the territory faces frequent power cuts, high tariffs, and insufficient electricity to meet local demands. The protesters state that they have been denied the benefits of the vast energy resources generated in their own land, with power shortages and exorbitant electricity costs becoming a common reality for residents.
The protestors, including students, traders, and political figures, state that their resources have been exploited for the benefit of the Indian mainland population, with little to no benefit reaching the local communities.
To curb the protests, the Indian-installed district administration imposed Section 144 under criminal procedure to restrict gatherings, but this has only fueled the determination of the people to continue their struggle. The residents of IIOJK are demanding immediate action to address their power crisis.
It is pertinent to mention that, in IIOJK, electricity tariffs have increased significantly in recent years, with a 17% hike in 2022 followed by another 15% increase in 2023-24 for metered consumers. Unmetered households in IIOJK were subjected to a 30% tariff increase in mid-2024. Despite these price hikes, the Indian government has not taken action to address the chronic power shortages in the territory, leading to mounting frustration and protests from the people.
Despite government-imposed restrictions and efforts to silence their voices, the people of IIOJK remain resolute in their fight for justice, vowing to continue their struggle for free electricity and a fair share of the resources they provide.
