Sumbal Residents Protest Against Prolonged Power Outages in IIOJK

Frustrated by ongoing power outages, residents of Naidkhai village have taken to the streets, demanding immediate action from the authorities to restore electricity.

In a show of protest against prolonged power outages, residents of Naidkhai village in Sumbal, Bandipora district, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), have voiced their grievances against the local administration. The villagers, angered by the lack of action from the Power Development Department (PDD), blocked the Sopore-Sumbal road for several hours, demanding a resolution to the ongoing electricity crisis.

The protests were triggered by a damaged transformer that has left the village without power for more than a month. Despite repeated requests from the villagers, the authorities have failed to repair the transformer, leaving the entire area in darkness. Protesters criticized the administration for its apathy toward their suffering, pointing out that instead of addressing the core issue, the authorities have sent faulty transformers that fail to work after a short period of use.

The villagers expressed their frustration, stating that the administration’s response has been inadequate and dismissive. “Instead of providing new, functioning transformers, the authorities mock our demands by sending faulty ones that fail repeatedly,” said one protester. The situation has only worsened as residents struggle without basic amenities, particularly during the harsh winter months, when power is essential for heating and daily life.

The protestors raised slogans and highlighted the lack of accountability within the PDD and the administration. Many pointed out that, despite multiple appeals and pleas for action, the authorities have done little to alleviate the suffering of the people. One protester remarked, “We are left in darkness, but the administration seems blind to our suffering.” This sentiment was echoed by many who feel that their grievances are being ignored by those in power.

This protest is not just about electricity but also reflects the broader issues of neglect and mismanagement that many residents of IIOJK face. The lack of proper infrastructure, poor governance, and the inability to provide basic services continue to fuel discontent among the local population. The protest in Naidkhai village serves as a desperate plea for attention from authorities, urging them to take immediate action to restore power and improve living conditions.

As the protest unfolded, the villagers made it clear that their patience had worn thin. The authorities’ failure to address such fundamental needs has intensified the sense of frustration and alienation among the people, underscoring the growing disconnect between the government and the residents of IIOJK.