No Proposal to Increase Power Tariff, Says CM Omar Abdullah – Alfaaz – The Words

Srinagar: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday dismissed speculation over a possible rise in electricity tariffs in the Union Territory, stating that the Government has neither examined nor initiated any proposal for a hike.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Abdullah, who also holds the Power portfolio, said the rumours had “no grounding in fact.” “There is no move to revise electricity tariffs. I am unaware of the source of these rumours. As the Power Minister, I can say with certainty that no such proposal has been brought before the Government,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister, along with Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, inaugurated the maiden e-auction of seven limestone blocks located in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch. The initiative is part of reforms implemented under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 2015.

Clarifying concerns regarding administrative control over the mineral blocks, Mr. Abdullah said the process remained squarely within the jurisdiction of the J&K administration. “These blocks are not being allocated arbitrarily, nor are they under the control of the Centre. The Union Ministry of Mines is merely facilitating the procedure to ensure transparency and efficiency,” he said. He added that limestone deposits were critical to cement manufacturing and that the Government intended to encourage industrial activity near mining sites to enhance employment opportunities for local youth.

On the controversy surrounding admissions at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, the Chief Minister reiterated that the institution follows a merit-only admission system. Citing the provisions of the University’s founding Act, he said, “There is no clause that restricts admission on the basis of religion. Admission has always been merit-driven.”

Any departure from merit-based admissions, he observed, would require the approval of the Supreme Court. Introducing religious considerations into the process, he warned, would undermine constitutional protections. “If decisions start being taken on the basis of religion, should social welfare schemes or policing adopt the same approach?” he asked.

Mr. Abdullah urged Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma to review the Assembly record, stating that no provision permits seat allocation on religious lines.