Imran shah
Kishtwar,DD, National Conference leader Shahan Sajjad Kichloo has strongly condemned the registration of FIRs against 11 individuals who were peacefully protesting the installation of smart meters in Kishtwar.
In a statement issued today, Kichloo criticized the administration’s response as “extreme and unwarranted,” emphasizing that the protest was non-violent and posed no threat to public order.
“Resorting to legal action against peaceful demonstrators is deeply undemocratic and reflective of an intolerant attitude towards public dissent,” he said.
The protests were reportedly organized by local residents concerned over the rising electricity bills and the alleged lack of transparency surrounding the installation process.
Despite the absence of any disruption to law and order, the authorities went ahead with FIRs against several participants, sparking outrage among community leaders and civil society members.
Kichloo demanded immediate withdrawal of the FIRs and called for a dialogue-based approach to address the public’s concerns.
He urged the administration to respect democratic rights and avoid measures that further alienate the local population.DD
