Jammu
Expressing anguish over the “callous approach” of the PDP-BJP coalition towards people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially those living in border and far off areas, Youth National Conference on Friday termed the Gram Sabhas being organized by Rural Development Department and Panchayti Raj in Poonch, Rajouri and Chenab Valley as mere eyewash.
Addressing youth workers and functionaries at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhavan, Provincial Youth National Conference President Ajaz Jan said these Sabhas are being publicized just to hoodwink public opinion, as there is nothing concrete on ground with regard to redressing grievances of rural population and assuaging their developmental needs.
“Much is being trumpeted about Gram Sabhas, as some of these might be taking place occasionally, the fact remains that the outreach of the government in respect of rural development in particular is totally missing”, he said, adding that the ministers seldom move out of their cozy environs to take stock of the problems of people and taking appropriate redressal measures thereof. He said sincerity of the coalition government towards people is exposed, as it was just indulging in populism and keeping the masses in good humour through handouts and lofty statements.
Jan cautioned the government and asked the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayti Raj not to go ahead with the proposal of transferring contractual staff appointed under RDD schemes as they are already getting meager amount as honorarium. Transfer to outer area will put extra burden on them, he added.
