‘Repeated amnesty could adversely impact the culture of timely bill payment’
Srinagar, Sep 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said the Jammu and Kashmir Government is examining reintroducing or extending the amnesty scheme for power consumers.
Replying to a question of MLA Vikram Randhawa during Question Hour, the Chief Minister, who also holds the Power portfolio, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the matter regarding reintroduction and extension of the Amnesty Scheme for power consumers is being examined by the department on merits.
The CM said that while repeated amnesty schemes could adversely impact the culture of timely bill payment, the Government could consider extending relief to people living below the poverty line and other underprivileged consumers on a case‑to‑case basis.
“Giving amnesty repeatedly is injustice to those who pay bills on time, and it also encourages consumers not to pay bills and wait for amnesty,” Omar said.
He, however, added that the Government can consider amnesty for poorer sections of society.
The amnesty scheme for domestic consumers concluded on March 31, 2026. In August 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir Government had extended the scheme. Under this scheme, domestic consumers were given an opportunity to clear their electricity bills by paying only the principal amount, while the interest accrued up to March 31, 2025 was completely waived. Consumers who paid their principal amount were given a full waiver on interest.
The scheme was applicable to all domestic electricity consumers with pending bills as of March 31, 2025. (KNO)
