- Bureaucracy in J&K defeating purpose of Centre-sponsored schemes
JAMMU: Senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP, Er Ghulam Ali Khatana, has criticized Jammu and Kashmir’s bureaucratic inertia, accusing local officials of delaying the implementation of crucial Centre-sponsored schemes, especially the Forest Rights Act (FRA). Khatana expressed anger over the lack of progress during a recent meeting, highlighting how bureaucratic hurdles are preventing the effective rollout of development initiatives.
One of Khatana’s key concerns is the denial of FRA benefits to marginalized communities such as the Gujjar, Bakkerwal, Pharai, Gadda Brahman, Padari, Chopal, and Gaddi Cippy, all of whom were granted Scheduled Tribes status under the Modi government.
He stressed that these communities are being unfairly deprived of the rights they deserve, calling the situation unacceptable. Khatana also criticized local authorities for failing to rehabilitate displaced tribals, a responsibility he emphasized falls on the respective Deputy Commissioners. “In regions like Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal, thousands of tribals have shared similar stories of administrative apathy,” he added.
Recalling a meeting two years ago with key officials, including the Secretary of the Tribal Department and the Forest Department, Khatana noted that no concrete action had been taken on the FRA’s implementation. He contrasted Jammu and Kashmir with states like Chhattisgarh, where homes have been built under the FRA provisions, while the region continues to struggle with even basic rights for individuals.
Khatana also expressed his desire to build martyr walls in community centres to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the nation, but claimed local officers have shown little interest in advancing these projects. He criticized the National Conference, Congress, and PDP for lacking respect for martyrs, while praising the Modi government for its efforts to honor the fallen.
Khatana issued a stern warning to local bureaucrats, reminding them that schemes initiated by Prime Minister Modi should not be obstructed, emphasizing that non-utilization of funds could lead to action against them. He also expressed concern about marginalized communities, particularly the Gujjars, Bakkerwals, and others, who are being deprived of FRA benefits. Khatana has demanded a comprehensive report on the status of Centre-sponsored schemes from the Chief Secretary, underscoring the urgent need for accountability.
