Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the allocation of electric power from the upcoming 850-MW Ratle hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir to Rajasthan, emphasizing a power crisis in the region. Abdullah, joined by other political leaders, criticized the decision, vowing to prevent power diversion even through legal means. The Ratle project, plagued with controversies since its inception, recently faced work stoppages by the implementing company, Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd. Subsequently, Ratle Hydro Electric Power Corporation Limited signed a 40-year Power Purchase Agreement with Rajasthan Urja Vikas. This sparked outrage as such long-term agreements are uncommon, leading to suspicions of betrayal and scepticism. Situated in the Chenab basin, the Ratle project, unique for its minimal displacement and compact location, has a complex history, changing hands from GVK Development Projects Pvt Ltd to a joint venture between NHPC and Jammu and Kashmir's Power Development Department. Questions surround the undisclosed details of the Power Purchase Agreement, its duration exceeding the project's active life, and the impact on Jammu and Kashmir's royalty earnings. Additionally, Ratle faces international scrutiny as part of the ongoing Indus Water Treaty disputes between India and Pakistan.