KISHTWAR, Jun 26: National Conference senior leader and Chenab Valley spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat has criticized Max Infra Private Limited, the executing agency of the Dulhasti Hydro Electric Project (Stage-II), alleging that the company is recruiting skilled workers from outside Jammu and Kashmir while ignoring qualified youth from Kishtwar district.
In a statement issued on Friday, Bhagat alleged that electricians, fitters, drivers, DG operators and plant operators have been hired from outside the Union Territory despite the availability of skilled and experienced local candidates. He said Kishtwar has a large pool of trained youth capable of performing these jobs and deserved priority in recruitment.
Terming the alleged hiring practice as unjust and discriminatory, the National Conference leader said it was depriving deserving unemployed youth of employment opportunities in projects being executed within their own district. He urged the management of Max Infra Private Limited to immediately review its recruitment policy and ensure preference is given to eligible local candidates.
Bhagat further warned that continued neglect of local youth would not be tolerated and appealed to the unemployed youth of Kishtwar to unite and raise their voice through peaceful and democratic means. He emphasized that development projects in the region should generate employment for local residents and contribute to the economic upliftment of the district.