Jammu Mirror Bureau | North Kashmir, Aug 25
In a major relief to electricity consumers across Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that the Union Territory will not witness any further power tariff hikes during the remainder of his government’s tenure. Defending the recently announced power tariff revision, the Chief Minister clarified that the move was necessitated out of administrative compulsion rather than choice.
Addressing a large public gathering in North Kashmir, CM Omar stated that his administration made concerted efforts to ensure that the financial burden on common citizens remained minimal.
“Tariff Hike Was a Compulsion, Not a Choice”
Acknowledging public concerns surrounding the electricity tariff adjustment, the Chief Minister maintained full transparency regarding the administration’s decision:
“I acknowledge the increase in electricity tariffs, but we did not do it out of happiness. It was a compulsion. I assure you, my complete effort will be that, God willing, during this government, after this, we will not increase the electricity rates any further. No more than this.”
Rebuttal to Opposition Criticism
Taking direct aim at opposition parties criticizing the move, CM Omar highlighted that previous governments had introduced substantially steeper tariff increases during their tenures without facing comparable scrutiny.
- Historical Comparison: The Chief Minister pointed out that previous dispensations had increased power tariffs by 13% to 15% four years ago.
- PDP-BJP Regime: Referring to the past PDP-BJP coalition, he noted that during Mehbooba Mufti’s tenure as Chief Minister, electricity rates were escalated by 13.5% to 14%.
- Questioning Double Standards: Questioning the motives of opposition critics, he asked: “Why did you remain silent at that time? At that time, didn’t you feel that injustice was being done to the people?”
Focus on Core Infrastructure & Public Welfare
The Chief Minister reiterated that the administration’s primary focus moving forward will center on upgrading essential public infrastructure and basic amenities across both rural and urban areas of J&K:
- Drinking Water & Sanitation: Accelerated execution of piped drinking water projects.
- Education & Healthcare: Modernizing school facilities and improving primary health infrastructure.
- Road Connectivity: Widening and upgrading critical transport corridors.
- Horticulture Support: Expanding post-harvest, mandi, and cold-chain facilities for growers.
CM Omar reaffirmed that his government remains fully committed to fulfilling all developmental and governance promises made to the people of
