Omar Govt must honour 200-unit free power promise: Sahni
JAMMU, Aug 23: Accusing the National Conference government of backtracking on its electoral promises, Shiv Sena (UBT) Jammu & Kashmir has termed the proposed 6.83% hike in power tariffs, scheduled to take effect from September 1, as a betrayal of public trust. The party demanded that the hike be withdrawn before implementation and the promise of 200 units of free electricity be honoured.
Addressing a press conference at the party office, Shiv Sena (UBT) J&K President Manish Sahni said the National Conference came to power promising 200 units of free electricity, but is now preparing to burden people with higher power bills instead of providing relief.
Sahni said rising prices of essential commodities, including sugar, fruits, vegetables, pulses, flour and rice, have already strained household budgets. Increasing electricity tariffs at a time of mounting inflation would amount to a double financial burden on ordinary families.
He questioned Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on when the government would fulfil its promise of 200 units of free power and demanded a clear timeline for implementation.
Sahni also questioned the BJP’s J&K leadership over its silence on the proposed tariff hike, asking why BJP leaders were not speaking up against the growing financial burden on the people.
He warned that if the proposed hike was not withdrawn before September 1, Shiv Sena (UBT) would take the issue from the public forum to the streets and launch a strong democratic campaign.
“Election promises are the government’s responsibility, not a favour to the people,” Sahni said.