Jammu: Massive protests broke out in Kishtwar as locals voiced strong opposition to the installation of smart meters, calling it an act of “oppression” against the community.
Residents took to the streets, chanting slogans like “Gundagardi nahi chalegi” (hooliganism will not be tolerated) and “Bijli hamara haq hai” (electricity is our right).
The protestors questioned why, despite Kishtwar being a hub of power generation, they are being forced to pay for electricity while states like Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim provide free or subsidized power.
“Why smart meters only in Kishtwar? What crime have we committed after sacrificing our land and homes for these projects?” asked one protestor.
They highlighted how locals had given up their properties for hydroelectric projects, only to face power cuts and high electricity bills.
The anger intensified after reports of young workers losing their lives in ongoing power projects. Protestors mentioned a recent tragedy at the Pakal Dul Hydroelectric Project, where a young man slipped into the river and lost his life.
“We gave our land, lost our homes, sacrificed our youth, and now they want to snatch our right to affordable electricity?” said a local leader.
Residents called for intervention from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and threatened to escalate their protests if their demands were not met.
The situation escalated when authorities, accompanied by police forces, attempted to install meters early in the morning while residents were still asleep. This led to clashes between locals and officials.
The people of Kishtwar are now urging everyone to unite in the fight for their rights, encouraging fellow citizens to voluntarily disconnect their power supply in protest against the smart meters.
