Rawalakot: Controversy Over Electricity Bills Sparks Public Outrage in Azad Kashmir

Rawalakot, Asif Ashraf: The Electricity Department in Azad Kashmir has ignited widespread public outrage by issuing electricity bills based on the old tariff. The majority of meter readers have refused to distribute these bills, citing heavy taxes and the government’s mishandling of previous financial aid.

Background and Financial Controversy:

During a boycott movement against the Shehbaz Sharif government, the Azad Kashmir administration secured a 23 billion rupee package intended to cover outstanding electricity bills and subsidies. Despite this, the government failed to pay the 4 billion rupees owed to WAPDA and instead directed citizens to pay their arrears in installments. New bills were promised to be based on the new tariff starting this month.

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After a two-week delay, the Electricity Department released bills under the old tariff, which included substantial taxes. This action led to a refusal by most meter readers to distribute the bills, further fueling public anger. Citizens feel deceived by the government’s failure to utilize the substantial aid appropriately, sparking discussions about reigniting the boycott movement.

Public Discontent and Historical Context:

Public anger is further intensified by the government’s mishandling of subsidies. Historically, 12 billion rupees were needed for a wheat subsidy when the price was 3,600 rupees per maund.

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Now, with the price reduced to 2,000 rupees per maund, the subsidy requirement should logically be lower. However, 19 billion rupees were still requested and received, raising questions about the allocation and use of funds.

A year-long movement in Azad Kashmir involved negotiations mediated by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir. These talks, which included representatives from the Pakistan government, the Chief Secretary of Azad Kashmir, and senior officers from two intelligence agencies, resulted in the aid package.

The parliamentary party of PML-N Kashmir presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif the need for 4 billion rupees to settle WAPDA’s dues and 19 billion for wheat subsidy. Despite receiving these funds, the Azad Kashmir government did not settle the electricity dues, instead placing the burden back on the citizens.

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Renewed Calls for Protests:

Citizens are also frustrated that, despite meeting the 400 MW electricity demand, WAPDA has not declared Azad Kashmir a load-shedding-free zone. This ongoing issue, coupled with the recent billing controversy, has led to renewed calls for protests and demands for accountability from the Azad Kashmir government.

The situation remains tense as the public seeks transparency and proper utilization of funds to prevent further economic strain on the citizens of Azad Kashmir.