SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) workers held separate protests in Pulwama and Shopian districts of south Kashmir’s on Thursday against the proposed 6.83 per cent increase in electricity tariffs in Jammu and Kashmir, demanding that the hike be withdrawn and the government honour its electoral commitments.
In Pulwama, the protest was held at the district headquarters under the leadership of PDP district president Ghulam Mohammad Shahoori. Party workers and supporters raised slogans opposing the proposed tariff increase.
Shahoori said the hike would add to the financial burden on households, farmers, small businesses and other consumers amid rising living costs. He also called upon the National Conference-led government to fulfil its election commitment of providing 200 units of free electricity.
He said the government should focus on measures that provide relief to consumers rather than increasing their financial burden.
In Shopian, scores of PDP workers staged a separate demonstration at the party office under district president Aijaz Mir. The protesters opposed the proposed tariff revision, arguing that higher electricity charges would further strain household budgets.
They urged the government to reconsider the increase and ensure affordable power for consumers.
The protests were held ahead of the proposed implementation of the revised tariff from September 1. The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has approved an average tariff increase of 6.83 per cent.
The PDP has called for withdrawal of the proposed hike and sought a clear roadmap for consumer relief, including implementation of the electoral promise of 200 units of free electricity.
