SRINAGAR: In a strongly-worded statement, former Minister and Senior National Conference leader, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, condemned the government’s recent decisions concerning toll tax and smart meters. He called upon the government to reconsider its actions, asserting that illogical and unjust measures only burden the people and hinder their well-being.
Sadhotra highlighted that in a welfare state, the priority should be to facilitate citizens’ lives and not to impose additional burdens on them. He specifically addressed the issue of toll tax at Sarore on the Jammu highway, characterising it as an unnecessary weight on the shoulders of common people. He urged for the immediate removal of this toll, emphasising its negative impact on traders, industrialists, tourists, pilgrims, and daily commuters.
What further exacerbated the situation, according to Sadhotra, was the government’s decision to charge road taxes despite already collecting fuel cess for road construction, maintenance, and improvements. He criticised the rationale behind imposing road taxes while indirectly burdening citizens through fuel prices. The politician recalled that his party had consistently opposed the establishment of a Toll Plaza at the initial stage, as the National Highway (Express Corridor) was still under construction. However, the government turned a blind eye to these concerns, leading to a situation that goes against the interests of all sections of society.
Expressing his displeasure with the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), Sadhotra accused the agency of disregarding the grievances of stakeholders who were peacefully voicing their dissent. He called upon the government, which he referred to as the “Double Engine Sarkar,” to adopt a more reasonable approach and respond to the widespread demand for the rollback of the toll collection decision at Sarore Toll Plaza and Lakhanpur. He stressed that these decisions were particularly unjust as the express highway was still in the process of construction.
Sadhotra voiced his concern over reports of youth being harassed and arrested for protesting against these decisions. He cautioned against such heavy-handed actions and demanded the immediate release of peaceful protesters. He underlined the necessity of focusing on road construction, improvement, and upgradation, especially for the National Highway, rather than burdening road users with taxes.
In a broader critique of the government’s performance, Sadhotra accused the “Double Engine Sarkar” of pushing Jammu and Kashmir into a difficult position and failing on multiple fronts. He argued that the implementation of smart meters was yet another unwelcome measure imposed on the common consumers, and he called for a resolution in line with the aspirations of the people.
Asserting the democratic nature of the country, Sadhotra appealed to the government to respect public sentiments and avoid behaving like Viceroys. He reminded the present dispensation that their duty was to serve the people in a welfare state. He expressed hope that the government would reconsider its decisions and take steps towards course correction, keeping the best interests of the citizens at heart.
