SRINAGAR: Member of Parliament from Srinagar, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, has strongly criticised the government , alleging that railway surveys and projects are being forced upon Kashmir despite no demand from the local population. Speaking in Lok Sabha, he expressed deep concerns over the destruction of orchards and livelihoods due to these projects.
Ruhullah pointed out that railway surveys are underway for the Pulwama-Shopian and Pahalgam routes, even though the people of these areas have not sought such infrastructure. “No one has demanded these railway lines. People are saying that their orchards and lands, which are the backbone of their livelihood and identity, are being destroyed,” he said.
He highlighted what he described as a contradiction in the government’s approach, noting that while railway projects in Kashmir are being imposed without public demand, areas such as Rajouri, Poonch, and Kupwara—where people have been actively demanding railway connectivity—are being ignored.
“Democracy means addressing what people need. But in Kashmir, the opposite is happening—what people demand is neglected, while what they do not want is being forced upon them,” he stated.
The MP further raised concerns about land acquisition under various pretexts, including railway projects and townships. He questioned whether this was a deliberate attempt to take away land from the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“What happened with Article 370—was that not enough? Now, under the excuse of railway lines and townships, lands are being snatched. What do you want to do with the people of Jammu and Kashmir?” he asked.
Ruhullah urged the government to reconsider these projects and prioritise the actual needs of the people. “Please do not impose railway lines on us where there is no demand. Instead, address the genuine concerns of the people of Rajouri, Poonch, and Kupwara,” he said.
