The Biz Reporter
SRINAGAR — The Omar Abdullah-led Jammu and Kashmir government has firmly ruled out the imposition of a proposed 20 percent surcharge on electricity during peak hours, terming the idea as “unfair and ill-timed.”
The clarification came from Tanvir Sadiq, MLA Zadibal and Chief Spokesperson of the National Conference, who took to social media to reassure the public following widespread concern over a petition filed by power distribution corporations.
In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), Sadiq addressed the reports regarding the surcharge proposal, which had sparked anxiety among residents bracing for the valley’s severe winter months.
“The Omar Abdullah led Government has already taken a clear stand on the proposed 20% peak-hour surcharge,” Sadiq stated. “In a harsh Kashmiri winter, power is a necessity, not a luxury. The Omar Abdullah–led government will not allow the people of J&K to be burdened with any such unfair and ill-timed proposal.”
Background of the Controversy
The controversy erupted after it came to light that the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) had petitioned the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) to levy a 20 percent surcharge on power consumption during peak hours—specifically mornings (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and evenings (5:00 PM to 10:00 PM).
The proposal, intended for the financial year 2025-26, was ostensibly aimed at managing load shedding and encouraging energy efficiency. However, it drew sharp criticism from trade bodies, civil society members, and opposition political parties, who argued that it would disproportionately punish common citizens during the freezing winter when electricity usage is unavoidable for survival.
Government’s Stance
The decisive rejection by the ruling National Conference government aligns with its broader electoral promises to alleviate economic stress on the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has previously emphasized the need for power reforms that do not penalize the consumer base, alongside pledges to provide relief in electricity tariffs.
By labeling electricity a “necessity, not a luxury,” the administration has signaled that it views power supply as a fundamental service rather than a revenue-generating commodity, particularly during the harsh climatic conditions of the region.
This announcement is expected to bring significant relief to households and businesses across the Union Territory that were apprehensive about soaring utility bills during the peak winter season.
