Protests erupt across IIOJK over steep power tariff hike
Consumers demand rollback, relief amid power cuts and rising living costs
Srinagar: Widespread protests have erupted across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir against the 6.83 per cent increase in electricity tariffs, with people in Kashmir Valley and Jammu region demanding immediate withdrawal of the revised charges and relief for consumers already facing power cuts, unemployment and rising living costs.
According to Kashmir Media Service, protests organized by various political parties were held in Ganderbal and Jammu, where demonstrators strongly opposed the tariff hike approved by the Modi-led Indian regime through its Regulatory Commission (JERC), which is scheduled to take effect from September 1.
In Ganderbal, protesters carried placards and raised slogans against the increase, describing it as an additional burden on ordinary households, particularly lower- and middle-income families already struggling with inflation and unemployment.
The protesters demanded immediate withdrawal of the revised tariff, saying consumers should instead be provided affordable electricity and relief from mounting household expenses.
In Jammu, a large protest demonstration was held in Gandhi Nagar, where demonstrators accused the authorities of increasing electricity charges despite prolonged and unscheduled power cuts and rising bills.
The protesters questioned the justification for imposing higher tariffs without a corresponding improvement in electricity supply and basic services. They also criticised the administration over what they described as failure to fulfil promises made to the people regarding electricity relief and other public services.
The protests reflect growing public resentment across IIOJK over the tariff revision, particularly amid concerns over economic hardship and inadequate electricity supply.
The demonstrations also highlighted wider dissatisfaction with the functioning of the administration, with protesters demanding accountability, affordable basic services and immediate relief from the increased electricity charges.
The 6.83 per cent tariff hike is set to come into force from September 1, adding to concerns among consumers over the financial impact of the revised power charges.
The protests in both regions indicate that opposition to the tariff increase is spreading beyond political circles, with ordinary consumers increasingly voicing concern over the cost of electricity and the quality of services being provided.
