SRINAGAR: Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari on Saturday called for the construction of individual bunkers in border areas, citing repeated shelling and public demand.
Speaking to reporters in Uri, Bukhari said that people in areas like Uri, Poonch, Rajouri, Karnah, and Samba have remained committed to the nation despite constant challenges.
“The people of Uri and other border areas have always stood by the nation. Now is the time for the nation to stand by them,” he said. He added that the suffering of the people must be acknowledged, though it is a relief that the number of casualties has remained low.
He said the government must go beyond providing monetary assistance and offer jobs to the families of victims. “Financial support is necessary, but these families need lasting security through employment,” he said.
Bukhari also praised the Army for its efforts to avoid civilian casualties. “The forces handled the situation professionally. War only causes destruction on both sides and must be avoided,” he said.
He urged elected representatives to allocate 50 percent of their Constituency Development Funds (CDF) for border safety measures. “In areas like Karnah, Uri, Rajouri, and Poonch, work on roads and drains can wait. Right now, we must focus on protecting lives,” he said.
Bukhari said he would continue to raise public concerns. “We speak up not for political gain but out of a sense of duty towards the people.”
He repeated his call for individual bunkers. “Every family needs their own secure space during crises. Community bunkers are not enough,” he said. (KNO)
