Leaders and workers of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) protested in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, against taxes, utility charges, and the electric power amnesty issue. The protesters, carrying placards, expressed concerns over the financial burden imposed on residents already facing limited incomes. The opposition party highlighted the public distress caused by increasing complaints about electricity bills, water charges, and municipal taxes.
PDP leader Iqbal Tramboo, speaking during the protest, referred to March 31 as a “black day” for the people of Kashmir due to mounting financial pressures. Tramboo emphasized the heavy tax burden, issuance of hefty power bills, demands for water fees, and delayed salaries for employees. The Jammu and Kashmir government had introduced a one-time amnesty for outstanding electricity dues, set to end on March 31.
Amid calls for an extension of the amnesty deadline, especially from the weaker sections of society, there has been no official announcement regarding the extension of the deadline for outstanding electric power dues. The protesters are hopeful for an announcement during the budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir legislative Assembly. Additionally, concerns have been raised about increased flat rate charges in non-metered rural areas without a corresponding increase in electricity consumption.
