Tasaduq Rashid

Srinagar, March 18 (KNS): Member of Parliament from Srinagar, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, strongly criticized the government in the Parliament session, stating that railway surveys and projects are being imposed on Kashmir despite no demand from the people. He expressed deep concerns over the destruction of orchards and livelihoods due to these projects.

Ruhullah highlighted that railway surveys are being conducted for the Pulwama-Shopian and Pahalgam routes, even though locals have not requested them. "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 pointed out the contradiction in the government's approach, noting that while railway projects in Kashmir are being imposed without public demand, areas like Rajouri, Poonch, and Kupwara, where people have been demanding railway connectivity, are being ignored.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

"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," Ruhullah stated.

The MP further raised concerns about land acquisition under various pretexts, including railway projects and townships. He questioned whether this was a deliberate move 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 focus on 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. (KNS)