Announce rebate on power bills for BPL families: Qayoom Wani

Srinagar, Dec 8: In an inclusive appeal representing the poorest and most economically vulnerable sections of J&K , the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF), under the leadership of Chairman Abdul Qayoom Wani, has urged the Lt Governer Manoj Sinha and  Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to announce a wide-ranging rebate on electricity dues for all Below Poverty Line (BPL) and poor  consumers.

JKCSF stated that thousands of households across both rural and urban areas continue to struggle with long-pending electricity arrears accumulated over months and years due to circumstances beyond their control.

The Forum expressed deep concern over the unprecedented economic strain affecting families dependent on tourism, horticulture, mining, transport, retail, and daily wage labour — sectors that together support a large segment of the region's population.

JKCSF highlighted that disruptions in trade and tourism have hit poor and BPL families, widows, senior citizens and migrant labourers the hardest.

“JKCSF appeals the Hon’ble LG and  Chief Minister to announce a comprehensive electricity fee rebate or amnesty covering all outstanding dues of BPL consumers, irrespective of duration. The Forum also urges the government to temporarily halt power disconnections, introduce a special low-tariff slab for the next financial cycle, and ensure regular and scheduled electricity and water supply so that essential services remain uninterrupted,” said a press release.