Srinagar: CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, on Sunday criticized Jammu Power Development Corporation Limited (JPDCL) for advocating registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against locals protesting the installation of smart meters.
Reports suggest that JPDCL has streesed for an FIR against 10 locals in a Kishtwar village for opposing and halting the installation of smart meters in their area.
Tarigami condemned the move, calling it an attempt to criminalize dissent, which he described as highly unfortunate and unacceptable in a democratic country.
“People have every right to express their dissent, and registering an FIR against locals for merely protesting is an extremely harsh action by the authorities,” he said.
The CPI(M) leader urged the authorities to withdraw the FIR, listen to the people’s concerns, and address their grievances.