Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 23: Members of the All J&K Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) staged a protest today, bringing attention to a range of pressing issues including toll taxes, the installation of smart meters, and the proposed hike in electricity prices by the Government.
Addressing the media, Anil Sharma, President of AJKPC, expressed their concerns regarding the toll tax system in the Jammu region.
He emphasized that there are currently two toll plazas within a 40-kilometre radius in Jammu, despite the deplorable condition of the roads.
Sharma urged authorities to consider closing one of the toll plazas, specifically advocating for the closure of the Ban toll plaza.
He pointed out that for the Saroor toll plaza, it is imperative to improve the road conditions before subjecting citizens to toll charges, as the road from Lakhanpur to Jammu remains in a woeful state.
“The road conditions are dire, and it is unjust to burden citizens with toll taxes without providing them with proper infrastructure,” Sharma remarked.
The protesters also demanded the regularization of Mali-cum-Chowkidars, individuals working in various panchayats who have yet to receive formal employment status despite contributing their land and labour.
“Years have passed, and these workers have not been granted the job security they deserve,” the AJKPC members stated, underscoring the urgency of their request.
In addition, the protest highlighted the grievances surrounding the installation of smart electricity meters in both Kashmir and Jammu.
Sharma asserted that the residents of the Union Territory are struggling to afford the escalating electricity bills resulting from these smart meters.
“Whether in Jammu or Kashmir, citizens are grappling with exorbitant bills. We demand an immediate halt to the installation process, as people deserve relief from this financial strain,” the protesters demanded in unison.
The President of AJKPC further criticized the Government’s proposal to increase the per unit price of electricity in Jammu and Kashmir.
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