Srinagar, Aug 22 (PTI) Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday opposed the hike in the power tarrif by over six per cent, saying it would put an additional burden on consumers.

The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission for Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh has approved a 6.83 per cent average hike in power tariff for J-K, which would come into effect from September 1.

People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Pulwama MLA Waheed Para said the hike comes when inflation is "biting the people hard".

"At a time when unemployment is at a peak, inflation is biting hard and ordinary families are struggling to make ends meet, the government has imposed a 6.83 per cent power tariff hike. They came to power with an aspirational agenda, 200 units of free electricity, free gas and free ration. From free tariff promises of relief to higher bills, what happened to the promise?" Para said in a post on X.

Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari accused the government of being insensitive.

"Only a government that is insensitive towards the problems and grievances of people can think of putting an additional burden on them by increasing power tariffs," Bukhari said.

He said that at a time when the people are already facing serious challenges like unemployment, rising inflation, and difficulties in the tourism and horticulture sectors, one fails to understand why the authorities have approved an average 6.83 per cent hike in power tariffs for 2026-“27.

"The ruling party had promised 200 units of free electricity and free gas cylinders for domestic use. These promises were made to seek votes from the people. But two years after coming to power, instead of providing relief to people already struggling with hardships, the government has chosen to increase power tariffs. This is deeply disappointing," he said.

Bukhari said his party stands firmly with the people in these difficult times.

"We will strongly raise this issue and oppose the power tariff hike. We will continue to stand with the people and fight against every decision that adds to their hardships," he added.

People's Conference chief and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone described the hike as a "shock".

"People in Jammu and Kashmir will now have to pay more from their pockets for electricity. The regulator has approved a 6.83 per cent hike in power tariff and says it has avoided a tariff shock. It is definitely a shock for those who were promised 200 units free in 2024 by the ruling party," Lone said on X. PTI SSB MNK MNK