National Conference MLA from Budgam district Saifuddin Bhat had an exclusive conversation with Salaam TV reporter Shaukat Baig. National Conference (NC) MLA from Budgam, Saif-ud-Din Bhat, clarified that the proposal to increase electricity charges during peak hours was not initiated by the Jammu and Kashmir government, but by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) — a quasi-judicial authority responsible for power tariff regulation across India. Bhat said it is important for the public to “understand the origin of the proposal,” emphasising that JERC formulates tariff structures at the national level and may not fully grasp the severe winter conditions and heavy power dependency in Kashmir. He asserted that the NC-led government has not proposed any surcharge and pledged that the party will “oppose the move at every stage to safeguard the interests of the people.” The Budgam MLA also strongly slammed the PDP, accusing the party of trying to mislead the public for political mileage. MLA Khansahab Saif-ud-Din Bhat appealed to the Union Home Minister to order the reopening of Doodhpathri in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. He said the continued closure of the well-known tourist destination has affected local livelihoods and caused inconvenience to visitors. Doodhpathri is an important attraction that supports a large number of families dependent on tourism, transport and allied activities. He said the prolonged closure has disrupted economic activity in the area and urged the Centre to take immediate steps to restore normal access. The MLA appealed to the Home Minister to intervene and ensure that the destination is reopened at the earliest in the interest of the people of Budgam.