Pulwama, Aug 23: Indian Youth Congress District President Pulwama Asif Rehman has opposed the 6.83 per cent increase in electricity charges in Jammu and Kashmir, terming it an additional burden on the common people at a time when many families are facing financial hardships.
Asif said the decision to increase electricity tariffs should have been reconsidered, particularly when people are already struggling with rising living costs. He said every increase in monthly household expenses puts additional pressure on ordinary families.
He urged the government to first ensure reliable and affordable electricity supply, address billing-related concerns and provide greater relief to economically weaker sections.
“Instead of increasing the burden on consumers, the administration should explore measures to improve efficiency, reduce transmission and distribution losses, strengthen revenue collection and ensure that subsidies and relief reach those who genuinely need them,” he said.
Asif Rehman stressed that electricity is an essential service and not a luxury, adding that the government should prioritise public welfare and take decisions that provide relief rather than add to the economic burden of common citizens.
He also questioned the electricity tariff hike in the context of the government’s election manifesto, saying that the government had assured 200 units of free electricity in its manifesto, while the tariff increase was now being implemented.
“The government had assured 200 units of free electricity in its manifesto, and now the increase in power tariffs is being carried out,” Rehman said, calling for the government to reconsider the decision in the larger public interest.
