Srinagar, August 22: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday voiced strong opposition to the recent increase in power tariffs across the Union Territory, terming it a move by an insensitive government.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Bukhari took to the social media platform X to express his disappointment, stating that only a government devoid of empathy for its citizens’ struggles would impose an additional financial burden through a hike in electricity charges.
The JKAP president highlighted that the populace is already grappling with significant challenges, including widespread unemployment, escalating inflation, and difficulties within the vital tourism and horticulture sectors. He questioned the rationale behind the approval of an average 6.83% increase in power tariffs for the fiscal year 2026-27, especially at a time when economic hardship is prevalent.
Bukhari recalled the ruling party’s electoral promises, which included assurances of 200 units of free electricity and free gas cylinders for domestic consumers. He asserted that these pledges were made to garner votes, but instead of providing relief, the government has opted to increase essential service costs mere two years into its term. This decision, he stated, is profoundly disappointing.
The Apni Party, under Bukhari’s leadership, has pledged its solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir during these trying economic times. The party intends to vigorously contest the power tariff hike and oppose any policy that exacerbates the hardships faced by the citizens.
Bukhari emphasized the party’s commitment to standing with the populace and actively fighting against all decisions that contribute to their financial distress. He reiterated that the Apni Party will continue its efforts to advocate for the welfare of the people and resist measures perceived as detrimental to their economic well-being.
The power tariff revision, approved by the relevant authorities, aims to address financial exigencies within the power sector, according to official statements. However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from political entities like the Apni Party, which argue that such measures disproportionately affect ordinary citizens already facing economic pressures.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has, in the past, cited the need for tariff revisions to ensure the financial viability of power distribution companies and to fund necessary infrastructure upgrades and maintenance. These adjustments are often presented as unavoidable measures to ensure a stable and reliable power supply in the long run.
Political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir often centers on economic issues and the impact of government policies on the daily lives of residents. The Apni Party has positioned itself as a regional force advocating for the specific concerns of the Union Territory’s population, often focusing on issues of development, employment, and economic relief.
This latest development underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the management of public utilities and the balance between financial sustainability and the affordability of essential services for the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir.
The party’s stance reflects a broader sentiment among certain sections of the public who feel that increased tariffs add to the already existing financial strain caused by inflation and unemployment.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
