KISHTWAR, Aug 23: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference senior leader and Chenab Valley Region spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat on Saturday said that the proposed increase in electricity prices has been recommended by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) and not by the Jammu and Kashmir government.
Bhagat said the distinction was important and alleged that BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma appeared to be unaware of the regulatory process and was attempting to shift responsibility towards the Jammu and Kashmir government.
“The proposal to increase electricity prices has not been made by the Omar Abdullah-led government. It has been proposed through the regulatory process by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission, a quasi-judicial regulatory body responsible for determining electricity tariffs,” Bhagat said.
He said the origin of the proposal should be clearly understood before making political allegations. According to Bhagat, the JERC is responsible for regulating electricity tariffs within its jurisdiction and its recommendations are part of the established regulatory process.
Bhagat maintained that the National Conference-led government has not proposed any surcharge and would oppose any such proposal at every stage. He said the government and the party would challenge the recommendation through the appropriate regulatory mechanisms and, if required, place their position before the competent commission.
Criticising Sunil Sharma, Bhagat said, “The Leader of Opposition should first carefully study the functioning of the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission and understand the tariff-setting process before making allegations against the government.”
Bhagat further said that any increase in electricity tariffs would place an additional financial burden on people already facing rising household expenses. He asserted that the National Conference government would continue to oppose measures that adversely affect the common people.
The NC leader reiterated that his party would stand firmly with the people on the issue and take all possible steps within the established regulatory framework to prevent any unjustified financial burden on consumers.