Srinagar, Nov 21 — Apni Party president and former Finance Minister Altaf Bukhari has strongly criticized the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited’s (KPDCL) proposal to impose a 20% surcharge on electricity tariffs during peak hours, calling it “a grave injustice” to people already struggling with economic hardship.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) early Thursday morning, Bukhari warned that the proposed measure would disproportionately impact families during Kashmir’s harsh winter months when electricity demand is at its highest.

Economic Crisis Deepens

The Apni Party supremo, who served as Finance Minister in the erstwhile state government, expressed concern that the surcharge would compound existing economic challenges facing Kashmir’s residents.

“KPDCL’s proposal to impose a 20% surcharge on power tariffs during peak hours is a grave injustice to people who are already struggling to survive an economic crisis,” Bukhari stated.

Key Sectors Still Reeling

Drawing on his financial expertise, the former minister highlighted the fragile state of Kashmir’s economy, particularly its backbone sectors.

“Most of our population depends on tourism and horticulture—sectors that have suffered massive losses last year. Businesses are also in decline,” he noted, emphasizing that raising electricity costs at such a time would further strain households and enterprises.

Winter Timing Questioned

Bukhari specifically criticized the proposal’s timing and target hours, pointing out that the surcharge would hit families hardest during morning and evening periods when power consumption peaks due to heating and cooking needs.

“In such times, increasing electricity charges for mornings and evenings—when families rely on power the most in freezing cold—cannot be justified,” the Apni Party chief said.

Appeal to Authorities

Calling on the government to demonstrate compassion, Bukhari urged officials to prioritize public welfare over revenue generation.

“The government has a moral duty to consider people’s economic hardships before even thinking of enforcing such a harsh measure,” he asserted. “With harsh winter days approaching, I urge the authorities: show some mercy to people who are already burdened and suffering.”

The statement, which had garnered significant attention within hours of posting, reflects growing public anxiety over the proposed policy.

KPDCL officials have not yet responded to Bukhari’s criticism or clarified details about the surcharge implementation, including which specific hours would be designated as “peak” periods or when the measure might take effect.