JAMMU, May 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee Jammu Rural District organized a crucial district-level meeting at the PCC Office in Jammu to deliberate on major public issues affecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was organized by District President Neeraj Kundan and presided over by senior Congress leader Raman Bhalla in the presence of former ministers Mula Ram, Abdul Majeed Wani and Jugal Kishore Sharma along with other party leaders and representatives.
The meeting witnessed participation from Block Presidents, Sarpanchs, Panchs, and senior Congress functionaries from rural and urban areas of Jammu district. Discussions were held regarding public grievances, organizational strengthening, and preparations for the upcoming Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections.
Addressing the gathering, Raman Bhalla strongly criticized the administration, alleging that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are facing severe hardships due to administrative failure and anti-people policies. He said unemployment among educated youth has reached alarming levels while inflation and rising prices of essential commodities have increased the burden on middle-class and economically weaker sections.
Bhalla stated that the government has failed to generate meaningful employment opportunities and alleged that the tourism and private sectors are facing setbacks, further worsening the economic situation in the Union Territory. He also highlighted the issues of daily wagers, contractual employees, and temporary workers demanding regularization and release of pending wages.
Raising concerns over civic infrastructure, Bhalla said people are suffering due to damaged roads, poor sanitation, shortage of drinking water, and unscheduled power cuts in both urban and rural areas. He alleged that developmental projects related to healthcare, education, and public infrastructure are progressing slowly or remain stalled. He also expressed concern over the reported neglect of tourist destinations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
Demanding restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Bhalla alleged that governance has become heavily bureaucratic, disconnecting common people from the decision-making process. He accused the Centre of imposing additional financial burdens such as property tax and increased GST, which he termed anti-people measures.
Former minister Mula Ram highlighted the extensive crop damage caused by recent hailstorms and demanded immediate compensation for affected farmers. He stressed the need for better road connectivity, irrigation, electricity, and healthcare facilities in rural areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Neeraj Kundan said the Congress party remains committed to raising grassroots issues and strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions. He urged party workers to intensify outreach programmes and remain connected with public concerns ahead of the upcoming Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections.