Srinagar, November 21 — Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari has strongly criticised the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) proposal to levy an additional 20 percent charge on electricity bills, terming it a grave injustice to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Bukhari said the move would place an unfair financial burden on households and businesses already struggling with rising costs. He emphasised that electricity is a basic necessity and should not be subjected to arbitrary hikes that disproportionately affect ordinary citizens.
In his statement, Bukhari urged the government to immediately withdraw the proposal and instead focus on improving power supply, reducing outages, and ensuring transparency in billing practices. He warned that such measures could erode public trust and deepen resentment among consumers.
The Apni Party leader reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the interests of the people and called upon civil society and political stakeholders to oppose the proposal collectively. He stressed that governance must prioritise relief and fairness rather than imposing additional burdens.
The controversy over KPDCL’s proposal has sparked widespread concern, with residents and trade bodies demanding that authorities reconsider the plan in light of its potential impact on livelihoods and economic stability in the region.