National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has questioned Jammu and Kashmir’s continued financial dependence on the Centre, asking how long the region would have to seek financial support from New Delhi.
Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir needs to become economically self-reliant and stand on its own feet if it wants to maintain its dignity and pursue greater political autonomy. He linked economic dependence with the demand for restoration of Article 370, arguing that both issues need to be viewed together.
His remarks came amid political opposition to the recently approved 6.83 per cent electricity tariff hike in Jammu and Kashmir, which is scheduled to come into effect from September 1.
The tariff increase has triggered criticism from opposition parties, with leaders questioning the impact of higher electricity charges on households and businesses. Abdullah’s comments have added a wider political dimension to the debate over the region’s finances, electricity tariffs and its relationship with the Centre.
