Jammu and Kashmir Assembly: CM Omar Abdullah states government's inability to provide free electricity. He also ruled out the possibility of establishing a new power plant to increase electricity supply.
CM Omar Abdullah: During the budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah clarified that the government lacks the financial capacity to provide free electricity to everyone. He stated that currently, there is no possibility of setting up a new power plant to increase electricity supply.
No Provision for Free Electricity in the Budget
CM Omar Abdullah informed the House that the government does not have sufficient funds to provide 24-hour free electricity to all. He also made it clear that there is no scope for introducing new power generation projects, leading to unavoidable power cuts.
No Impact on Inflation - Omar Abdullah
The Chief Minister stated that the government's priority is to focus on social welfare schemes, but limited budget constraints prevent significant increases in funding. He also asserted that the government has not formulated any plan that would increase inflation.
Omar Abdullah's Response to the Budget
CM Omar Abdullah clarified that ₹70,000 crore is being spent on employee salaries, while the capital expenditure (CAPEX) budget is only ₹35,000 crore. He mentioned that the electricity, tourism, and industrial sectors are being identified to improve Jammu and Kashmir's economic situation and move towards self-reliance.
Free Electricity for the Poor
The National Conference (NC) had promised to provide 200 units of free electricity to everyone in its election manifesto, but the government has decided in its first budget to provide only 200 units of free electricity to poor families. Additionally, free bus service for women has also been announced.
'Opposition Playing Football in a Cricket Field'
During the budget discussion, Omar Abdullah quipped that the opposition, referring to Balwant Mankotia, was playing football in a cricket field. He criticized them for focusing more on other political issues than the budget itself.
'Budget is a Love Letter for BJP, Congress, and PDP'
The Chief Minister stated that some people are calling his speech a 'love letter' for the BJP, but this budget is an important document for the common citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. He said he would continue to present similar plans in the coming years in the interest of the public.
