Says “We Will Fulfill Our Promises Systematically and Responsibly”
JAMMU, MARCH 25: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling all promises made in its manifesto, including the provision of 200 units of free electricity to eligible households.
Responding to supplementary questions from legislators during the Question Hour of the ongoing Budget Session in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister emphasized his administration’s dedication to delivering on its pledges. “Whatever promises we have made in our manifesto, we will fulfill them with intent and commitment,” he asserted. As a first step, the government has prioritized the poorest and most deserving households to ensure the initiative is rolled out systematically.
“We are not distorting facts—nor have we done so in the past, nor will we now. This process will proceed systematically, beginning with those who are the poorest and most deserving. We are prioritizing the AAY category, but we will expand the scope in the future. This is just the beginning,” stated CM Abdullah.
Addressing skepticism about the initiative’s feasibility, the Chief Minister urged critics to withhold judgment until implementation begins. “Some dismiss this initiative prematurely, claiming it won’t work. Let it commence first; then, we can evaluate its progress. If adjustments are needed, we will make them. Our goal remains clear: to provide electricity to the people,” he remarked. Using a metaphor, he underscored the government’s focus on outcomes over political debates: “Do we care more about the milk or the cow? We care about the milk. It does not matter which cow produces it—our priority is ensuring people receive 200 units of electricity.”
Regarding the Amnesty Scheme, the Chief Minister stated that modifications are under consideration to enhance effectiveness. “If a principle-based approach to these changes can be established, we will implement them,” he assured.
Responding to opposition demands for a timeline, the CM said: “When asked, ‘Will you provide electricity, and if so, when?’ the answer cannot be reduced to a single word. This is question number two, and its answer is not a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’” He reaffirmed that the provision of 200 units of electricity will proceed systematically and responsibly. “I reiterate: this is how we will execute it,” he emphasized.
Earlier, responding to clubbed questions from Dr. Narinder Singh Raina, Sajad Gani Lone, and Shabir Ahmad Kullay, the CM outlined the implementation framework. The government will provide 200 units of free electricity to all Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana (PMSGBY). The initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens and improve living standards for economically weaker sections, implemented through the RESCO/Utility-Led Aggregation Model or another viable financial framework.
On electricity tariffs, the CM clarified that J&K consumers already benefit from heavily subsidized rates, particularly in the domestic category. Current tariffs range from Rs. 2.30 per unit (for up to 200 units monthly) to Rs. 4.35 per unit—among India’s lowest. For Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, the rate is Rs. 1.40 per unit for up to 30 units monthly. Metered consumers are billed based on usage, while unmetered consumers pay flat rates per sanctioned load.
Regarding arrears, the CM explained that unpaid bills accumulate over time. To streamline billing, the government has offered to waive interest/surcharge on outstanding arrears under the ongoing Amnesty Scheme. Plans to extend the scheme with modifications are underway to ensure statewide benefits.
The government will also adopt the RESCO model for installing Solar Rooftop Systems (SRTs) at AAY households, particularly in hilly areas. “This approach enables local electricity generation, eliminating transmission costs from distant sources,” the CM stated. Additionally, subsidies under PMSGBY will be leveraged, with beneficiary surveys guiding the financial framework for sustainable implementation.
“Our Commitment Is to the Restoration of Statehood”: CM Omar Abdullah
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, stressing that political theatrics cannot alter the current reality. Speaking in the Legislative Assembly, he highlighted efforts to advocate for statehood, including a cabinet resolution and direct appeals to the Prime Minister.
Responding to opposition criticism over the term “Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir” in Appropriation Bills, the CM dismissed misinformation spread via social media. “The WhatsApp forward prompting a member’s walkout falsely suggests this bill alters our status. Let me clarify: we are already a Union Territory, whether we like it or not. This is the government of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.
He underscored that his administration operates within the UT framework: “We took oaths as UT representatives, contested UT Assembly elections, and pass the UT budget. Omitting ‘Union Territory’ from the bill changes nothing. Performative politics for cameras will not restore statehood—only sustained efforts will.”
Highlighting past efforts, he noted: “In our first cabinet meeting, we passed a resolution for statehood and submitted it to the Prime Minister. During his recent Sonmarg visit, I publicly urged restoration. In every Delhi meeting, I reiterate that J&K rejects UT status.”
On legislative procedure, he added: “As a UT, grants from the Home Department were passed without discussion or cut motions—a reality opposition walkouts cannot change. The crime of our status was committed earlier; theatrics won’t undo it.”
Concluding, he cautioned against misinformation-driven politics: “Our focus remains clear: restoring J&K’s statehood. Until Parliament acts, we remain a UT. Let us not politicize terminology unnecessarily.”
