The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, defended the increase in electricity tariffs in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. He noted that the rise is insignificant, and his government never claimed that the cost of electricity would not increase.
Abdullah emphasized: 'When did we say that electricity tariffs would not increase? We said that we would provide 200 units of free electricity to the poorest people, those who need it the most.'
Responding to criticism from political parties protesting against the tariff hike, Omar pointed out that after a four-year break, the increase was only 6%, whereas previously it was significantly higher. He added that those accusing him should remember that they themselves once held power, and during their rule, electricity tariffs increased by more than 14%, and they did not consider that unfair.
The minister also recalled that tariffs were raised by 15% four years ago, and even then, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remained silent. Abdullah concluded that the tariff increase is not a celebration but a forced measure, and such steps will not be necessary when losses in the energy sector decrease.
These statements came amid criticism that the tariff increase contradicts the National Congress's promise to provide 200 units of free electricity. Starting September 1, consumers in Jammu and Kashmir will face higher electricity bills after the Energy Regulatory Commission jointly approved a 6.83% tariff increase for all consumer categories on Saturday.
On Monday, the PDP party organized a protest demanding the cancellation of the tariff increase. Furthermore, the BJP and People's Conference also criticized this decision, claiming that the government is burdening ordinary citizens.