The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has welcomed the government’s recent decision to extend the power amnesty scheme for domestic consumers in Jammu and Kashmir till March 31, 2026. While appreciating this timely relief for households, KCCI has urged the administration to extend similar amnesty benefits to commercial power consumers across the Union Territory.
Thousands of commercial establishments in Jammu and Kashmir—ranging from small shops and service units to hotels, industrial units, and offices—are under financial strain due to the accumulation of power dues. The continuing burden of these outstanding bills poses a serious threat to business continuity, employment, and overall economic stability. Though the J&K government announced an amnesty for commercial power consumers, it was never implemented on the ground.
KCCI has emphasised that a power amnesty scheme for commercial consumers would provide much-needed financial relief, help avert business closures, and support the recovery and resilience of the region’s economy. Such a measure would also encourage timely compliance in the future and improve the overall revenue collection environment in the power sector.
The Chamber has urged that the commercial sector be treated with the same consideration extended to domestic consumers. In the wake of prolonged disruptions in the past caused by successive lockdowns, pandemic-related losses, and low demand cycles, businesses have faced extraordinary challenges and now require targeted support to regain financial footing.
KCCI is hopeful that the government will take a sympathetic and pragmatic view of the matter and announce an amnesty scheme for commercial consumers without further delay. This step would send a strong signal of support to the business community.