Kishtwar admin bans protests as free power agitation intensifies, PDP calls it ‘criminalising dissent’

Kishtwar: The Kishtwar administration on Monday imposed a ban on protests and public gatherings of five or more people, citing concerns over public order amid growing demonstrations for free electricity. The order, which will remain in effect for two months, warns that violators will face legal action under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

The move has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), which accused the administration of “blatant misuse of power” and attempting to “criminalise dissent.” The restrictions come after weeks of protests by Kishtwar residents, with participation from civil society members, political leaders, and religious figures from both Hindu and Muslim communities.

The agitation, which began with a social media campaign by local activist Waseem Akram Bhat on January 19, quickly gained momentum. His slogan—“Humari Bijli Humko Do, Muft Do, Muft Do” (“Give us our electricity, give it for free”)— resonated with the public, drawing hundreds of protesters to the Chogan ground on January 26.

Among those supporting the demand are BJP MLA from Kishtwar, Shagun Parihar, who called the National Conference government’s promise of 200 free electricity units per household a “hoax.” Other prominent figures, including Shahan Sajjad, son of National Conference leader Sajjad Kichloo, and PDP leader Firdous Tak, have also joined the movement.

The protests intensified on Sunday (February 9) with a large gathering at Shaheedi Park in Kishtwar, a site of historical significance where four protesters—two Hindus and two Muslims—were killed in police firing on September 13, 1974, during an agitation for a college in the district.