Confusion and frustration are growing among power consumers in Jammu and Kashmir as the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) and Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) has not yet issued an official order to extend the power amnesty scheme—despite Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s announcement in the Assembly that the scheme would be extended by another year.
While the Chief Minister, who also holds the power portfolio, as per Srinagar based news gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com made a public commitment during a discussion on the power department’s grants, implementation has stalled due to the absence of a formal directive.
“We have decided to extend the amnesty scheme by another year,” the CM had said, adding that routine waivers, however, may seem unfair to regular bill payers.
Officers at Electric Division and Sub-Division levels report daily visits from distressed consumers. “The amnesty portal has been closed since March 31, and we have no official instructions to proceed. We’re helpless,” said an officer at a local Sub-Division office.
Consumers, many of whom were counting on the extension to clear long-pending electricity dues without penalties, are now left in limbo.
“I had arranged the money thinking I’ll pay under the amnesty after March 31, as announced. Now they say the scheme is closed. What are we supposed to do?” said Ghulam Nabi, a resident of Baramulla.
“We don’t understand how the Chief Minister can make such a big announcement and the department doesn’t act on it. This is unfair to poor people like us who genuinely want to clear their dues,” said Shaista Bano, a housewife from Anantnag.
KPDCL’s Managing Director, Mehmood Shah, confirmed that no official order has been issued so far. When asked for a timeline, he simply said, “You (media) will get to know first.”
Meanwhile, the gap between announcement and execution is leaving both officials and consumers frustrated—with many urging the government to issue clear directions without further delay. (KDC)
