Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said his administration will not impose any further increases in electricity tariffs for the remainder of its term, and that it will redirect efforts towards enhancing public services and local infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
Assurance amid criticism of recent tariff revision
Addressing a public meeting in north Kashmir, the Chief Minister defended the recent revision in power charges as deliberately limited to reduce additional pressure on consumers. He said the government intends to refrain from levying further hikes and will instead concentrate on delivery of basic amenities.
“I assure you, my complete effort will be that, God willing, during this government, after this, we will not increase the electricity rates any further. No more than this,” the Chief Minister said.
Omar Abdullah contrasted the present move with earlier increases, noting that previous administrations had raised electricity rates substantially. He cited a hike of about 13–15 per cent around four years ago under the former PDP-BJP administration headed by Mehbooba Mufti, and questioned why there had been limited public outcry at that time.
Priority shift to infrastructure and services
The Chief Minister listed several sectors that the government will prioritise going forward: potable water supply, schools, healthcare facilities, roads and horticulture-related infrastructure. He also said the administration will work on establishing a fruit market and other locally demanded facilities.
Abdullah said the government remains committed to fulfilling pledges made during the election campaign and will attempt to implement those commitments over the remainder of its tenure, which he indicated as roughly three and a half years.
Political context and reactions
The comment comes amid sharp criticism from opposition parties and civic groups over the recent tariff revision, which critics say will burden consumers. The Chief Minister responded directly to those concerns and framed the limited revision as an attempt to balance fiscal needs with consumer protection.
- Tariff stance: No further hikes during the current government.
- Focus areas: Drinking water, education, health, roads, horticulture and fruit market development.
- Tenure note: Government aims to deliver on promises within the remaining term (about three and a half years).
Summary of recent tariff increases
| Reference | Reported change | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Previous government (Mehbooba Mufti) | ~13.5–14% | About four years ago (as cited by CM) |
| Recent revision | Limited increase (specifics not detailed) | Current administration |
Officials did not provide a detailed breakdown of the latest revision in the statement accompanying the Chief Minister's remarks. Opposition leaders and consumer groups have said they will continue to press the government on the cost impact for households and businesses.
Implications for residents
The assurance may offer temporary relief to consumers worried about rising household expenses. However, trade bodies and civic organisations are likely to assess the long-term fiscal and operational decisions of the power distribution and regulatory apparatus, including subsidies, cross-subsidisation and supply-side reforms, to judge whether the no-hike pledge can be sustained without affecting service quality.
For now, the administration’s declared priorities indicate a shift towards infrastructure projects and service delivery, which the government says will benefit daily life and economic activity across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
Reporting from Srinagar.
