SRINAGAR, May 14: Expressing deep apprehension regarding the power crisis in the Kashmir valley, CPI(M) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami accused the administration of failure and mismanagement. Tarigami highlighted the plight of the people in Jammu & Kashmir, questioning the prolonged deprivation of electricity in the region.
Tarigami denounced the recent announcement by the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) of additional power curtailments, considering it as unacceptable and a direct disregard for the welfare of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized that the citizens of Kashmir are enduring both literal and metaphorical darkness due to the ongoing power shortages.
The CPI leader criticized the assertion of surplus power, labeling it as a cruel irony amidst the reality of unscheduled power cuts and outages, which have now worsened due to additional curtailments. Tarigami emphasized the unjust treatment of Jammu & Kashmir in terms of electricity benefits, despite the exploitation of its natural resources.
Demanding a fair share of 40% free power as compensation for the utilization of land and water resources, Tarigami denounced the economic burden imposed on Jammu & Kashmir due to the annual purchase of power worth thousands of crores, which ultimately affects its citizens through unjust power curtailments.
Terming it as a policy failure and a deliberate suppression of rights, Tarigami urged for immediate rectification of these injustices and the implementation of equitable power-sharing norms. He emphasized the need for transparency, fairness, and respect for the citizens of Jammu & Kashmir.
Tarigami also raised concerns about inflated electricity bills generated by smart meters, stressing the importance of prioritizing sufficient electricity supply over meter installations. He criticized the filing of FIRs by the Power Development Department (PDD) against consumers and called for prompt action to ensure consistent access to electricity for daily needs.
In conclusion, Tarigami called upon the administration to address the power crisis promptly and ensure the well-being of consumers by providing uninterrupted electricity supply in the region.
