Scores of families in Mir Mohalla and Wagay Mohalla of Zainakote on the outskirts of Srinagar are reeling under darkness after Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) disconnected their electricity connections over non-payment of bills.
The affected households, comprising mostly downtrodden families, have been without electricity for the past two months.
The power disconnection has sparked outrage among the residents, who took to the streets on Friday, pleading for mercy. Men, women, and children staged protests, carrying placards urging authorities to restore their power supply.
One of the protesters said that the decision to cut off power for certain households while others continue to have electricity has led to resentment and a sense of discrimination. "Those who can afford hefty power bills enjoy electricity, while the poor suffer in darkness. This situation has created a deep divide among the people," he said.
The residents have appealed to the administration to intervene and find a solution that ensures equitable access to electricity for all, regardless of financial status. They argued that cutting off power to impoverished families during the harsh winter months is unjust and inhumane.