Srinagar
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on Sunday condemned NITI Aayog member V K Saraswat’s remarks that the Jammu and Kashmir’s economy was not significantly affected by the internet suspension and the data service was only used to watch “dirty films”, and demanded his immediate removal.
A spokesperson of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed concern at the malicious and irresponsible statement given by V K Saraswat, a member of the NITI Aayog stating that the internet blockade has no impact on the economy in Kashmir and that it was only being used to watch dirty films.
Considering the present state of the economy of not only Kashmir but all over the country which is moving from bad to worse and the failure to formulate any redressive policy (NITI) by the Government, it would perhaps have been better if Saraswat would have chosen to maintain his silence. However, the statement issued by a person holding a responsible position raises concern at the caliber and mental condition of persons entrusted with serious responsibilities, said the spokesman.
The statement is not only unbecoming but also maligns the population of Kashmir. The losses caused to our economy is a matter of record and cannot be swept under the carpet by the issuance of absurd, defamatory and factually incorrect statements, he said.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry demands the removal of Saraswat as a member of the NITI Aayog for his irresponsible conduct, said KCCI spokesman in a statement.
