Jammu: In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, the Power Department has snapped power lines to scores of houses in Jammu’s Janipora area due to non-payment of electricity bills. The affected residents, primarily belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, have been left to suffer in complete darkness, as they find themselves unable to afford the hefty bills generated by smart meters.
The power disconnection has left many families, including elderly pensioners and daily wage workers, struggling to cope with the crisis. The lack of electricity has not only made their daily lives miserable but has also raised concerns over their safety and well-being.
According to locals, the Power Department is in no mood to provide any relaxation to the poor despite their repeated pleas for reconsideration.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Amit Kapoor addressed a press conference in Jammu today, condemning the move and threatening to cordon off the Assembly Secretariat if power is not restored immediately.
He lashed out at the ruling BJP, alleging that all its elected representatives have failed to redress the grievances of the people.“The BJP’s leaders have proved to be completely ineffective. The government has turned a blind eye to the suffering of the poor, and these exorbitant smart meter bills are only adding to their miseries.
If this injustice is not addressed, we will take to the streets and ensure that our voices are heard,” Kapoor warned.Kapoor cited the case of an elderly woman, a pensioner, who has been fasting for the last two weeks, unable to afford her electricity bill and forced to live in darkness. “This is not just one case.
Many other households are facing the same plight. This is a humanitarian crisis, and the administration must act before the situation worsens,” he added.
The affected residents have urged the government to reconsider its rigid stance and provide relief to those who cannot afford the high tariffs.
Many suggested that the administration should introduce a subsidized billing system for the underprivileged or at least allow them to pay in installments to ease the burden. [KNT]
Comments are closed.