Prolonged Power Crisis in IIOJK Exposes False Claims of Development

While the Indian government boasts of progress in Kashmir, the residents of Kathpora, Shopian, are left struggling in darkness, facing days of power outages and neglect.

In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the people of Kathpora, Shopian, are enduring a relentless power outage that has stretched to six days. This prolonged crisis has created immense difficulties for residents, disrupting daily life, businesses, and students’ studies.

The power failure has once again highlighted the stark contrast between the Modi-led Indian government’s claims of infrastructural progress after the abrogation of Article 370 and the grim reality faced by the Kashmiri people. Despite repeated pleas to the authorities, no substantial action has been taken to restore electricity, deepening the frustration of the local population.

The situation is particularly disheartening as it persists during the sacred month of Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection and prayer. Residents expressed their distress, stating that despite continuous appeals to the authorities, their voices are being ignored. “We are extremely disappointed. For days, we have been reaching out to the authorities, yet no action has been taken. Even in this blessed month of Ramadan, we are forced to suffer,” lamented locals.

The residents of Kathpora have urged the Power Development Department (PDD) to expedite efforts in restoring electricity, stressing the urgent need for intervention to prevent further hardship. The ongoing power crisis underscores the disconnect between New Delhi’s grand claims of development in IIOJK and the everyday struggles of the region’s people.

This situation also sheds light on the broader issue of inadequate infrastructure and governance failures in the occupied territory. The lack of timely response to basic necessities such as electricity raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the administration imposed by the Indian government.

As Kashmiris continue to face disruptions in essential services, the contrast between official narratives and ground realities becomes increasingly evident. The people of IIOJK are left to bear the brunt of government inefficiency while their appeals for basic amenities go unanswered.