JAMMU, November 24, 2025 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday firmly denied reports suggesting a 20% surcharge on electricity consumption during peak hours, calling the claims baseless and misleading.
“No electricity hike is proposed. I have no idea where this rumour started,” he told reporters in Jammu.
Abdullah, who also holds the Power portfolio, clarified that no discussion has taken place within the government regarding any tariff increase.
“Forget my signature—there isn’t even a proposal before the Government. I have already said in the budget that there will be no hike in electricity fees,” he stressed, urging people not to fall for misinformation.
The clarification came during the launch of the first-ever e-auction of seven limestone mineral blocks across Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch—an important step aligned with mining reforms under the MMDR Act (2015).
The auction was jointly inaugurated by Union Coal & Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, CM Omar Abdullah and Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary.
Addressing concerns raised by political opponents regarding the auction, Abdullah categorically stated that the blocks would be allotted transparently, with no control handed over to the Centre beyond technical assistance.
“These blocks will not be given to anyone arbitrarily. The Union Ministry is only helping ensure transparency and smooth mining operations in J&K,” he said.
The CM highlighted that limestone is crucial for the cement industry and expressed hope that new mining activity could pave the way for industrial growth and job creation for youth in the region.
“Efforts will be made to ensure mining leads to cement manufacturing units nearby, generating new employment opportunities,” he added.
