A reform out of sync

The widespread criticism surrounding the installation of smart meters in Jammu and Kashmir reflects a deeper frustration that has been building for years. Residents, already grappling with erratic electricity and prolonged outages, especially during the harsh winter months, view the rollout of smart meters as a reform out of sync with their lived realities. The core demand of the people is simple and justified: provide reliable, round-the-clock electricity before enforcing technological upgrades in monitoring and billing. While the administration argues that smart meters will curb power theft, reduce losses and bring transparency to the system, citizens question the fairness of being precisely billed for a service they often do not receive adequately. Winter power shortages in many districts leave households struggling with low voltage, frequent cuts and unreliable schedules. In such conditions, the push for smart meters appears to many as prioritizing revenue collection over strengthening basic infrastructure. The criticism is not a rejection of technology itself. Smart meters, when implemented alongside dependable supply, can be valuable tools for modernizing an ailing power sector. The real issue is sequencing. Instead of first upgrading transmission lines, reinforcing overloaded feeders, and ensuring adequate energy availability, authorities have placed the metering overhaul at the forefront. This creates an impression that consumers are being held accountable before the system is prepared to deliver its part. Moving forward, a balanced approach is essential. The government must accelerate infrastructure improvements, ensure transparent billing practices, and establish effective grievance-redressal mechanisms. Visible enhancement in supply will naturally build trust and encourage public acceptance of smart metering. Ultimately, people are not protesting technology; they are protesting the absence of reliable electricity. When uninterrupted power becomes the norm, smart meters will no longer be symbols of burden but markers of progress. For now, the priority must remain clear: power first, reforms next.