Srinagar, August 23 : Jammu and Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) State Secretary and former President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, has strongly criticised the recent power tariff hike coming into effect from September 1, terming it a severe burden on ordinary households and small businesses already facing inflation and economic difficulties.
In a statement, Ahmad said electricity is a basic necessity and that a substantial increase in monthly power bills would directly affect household budgets, children’s education and the livelihoods of small shopkeepers, artisans and traders.
He said the government must take into account the ground realities of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the harsh winter conditions and fragile livelihood opportunities in the region. “Hiking power tariffs without improving supply and reliability is unjustified,” he said.
Ahmad urged the administration to immediately review the revised tariff structure and roll back what he termed an unjustified hike, keeping the interests of the common people in mind.
He also called for special concessions for small businesses and commercial establishments, describing them as an important pillar of the local economy.
The AIP leader further demanded greater accountability and improved efficiency in the power sector, arguing that inefficiencies should not be passed on to consumers through higher tariffs.
“The Jammu Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party stands firmly with the people on this issue,” Ahmad said, urging the government to take immediate measures to reduce the burden on consumers and provide relief to ordinary families and the business community.
