Power Tariff Protests.

Rising power tariffs and taxes fuelled protests in many areas of the country including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The issue is persistent because receiving inflated electricity bills each month will send a wave of anguish among both traders and home consumers. Protests in Muzaffarabad and other cities and districts of AJK must be paid due heed so that the protests do not escalate. Organised by various people's action committees and civil society, it must be recognised that these demonstrationsrepresent legitimate concerns and a crackdown might not be a sufficient answer.

There is no denying the fact that the country is facing a major economic challenge where decisions such as power tariff hikes have become a necessity. But it is very important to communicate this urgency to common people and traders and to win their trust during this crucial and sensitive time of economic instability. If the unease among people is left to its own devices, the possible outcome will be more protests and sit-ins. Negotiation and effective communication of the challenges at hand will ensure cooperation from traders, businessmen, and home consumers of electricity.

Fair and equal treatment must be meted out to...