Srinagar, /
The National Conference (NC) on Thursday strongly opposed the proposed 20% peak-hour power surcharge, asserting that the people of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be subjected to additional financial pressure at a time when harsh winter conditions make electricity an essential service.
In a sharply worded statement, the NC spokesperson said the party’s position is “unambiguous and firm” on the issue. He noted that the Omar Abdullah–led government had already taken a clear stand against such measures during its tenure and continues to maintain that essential services must remain accessible and affordable to all citizens.
“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,” the statement said.
The spokesperson added that imposing a surcharge at a time when temperatures drop severely and electricity consumption increases due to heating requirements would reflect “insensitivity toward ground realities.” He emphasized that people in both rural and urban areas are already grappling with the impact of existing electricity tariffs, inconsistent supply, and repeated power cuts.
The National Conference urged the administration to explore alternative, people-friendly solutions to address revenue or power management concerns. “Policy decisions must be framed with empathy, keeping in view the socio-economic conditions of the people,” the spokesperson said.
The party also called on stakeholders and civil society organisations to remain vigilant and united against any move that could lead to additional hardships during the winter months.
The NC reiterated that it will continue to raise its voice against policies that hurt public welfare and will stand by the people of Jammu and Kashmir “in every forum and at every level.”
