KISHTWAR, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference senior leader and Chenab Valley regional spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat has raised serious concerns over the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for road construction by the Sub-Division of the Jal Shakti Department in Kishtwar, demanding a transparent investigation into the matter.
Bhagat said that the Jal Shakti Department’s Sub-Division in Kishtwar serves as an important public service centre, where residents from different parts of the district approach officials to seek solutions to their water-related issues and grievances. He stressed that the department’s infrastructure and resources must be protected and utilised in the larger public interest.
Questioning the basis on which road construction permissions were being granted, the National Conference leader alleged that such decisions appeared to benefit a select few influential individuals, potentially at the cost of public assets. He asserted that compromising public property for private interests was unacceptable and called upon the concerned authorities to clarify the circumstances under which the permissions had been issued.
Bhagat demanded a thorough inquiry into all NOCs granted by the department, urging the administration to disclose the terms, conditions and legal basis of the authorisations. He emphasised that transparency and accountability must be maintained in all decisions involving public property.
He also expressed concern over the presence of Chinar trees within the jurisdiction of the Jal Shakti Department’s Sub-Division. Stating that these trees hold significant environmental and public value, he said that any proposal affecting them must comply with the applicable laws and receive the necessary permissions from the competent authorities. He called for the protection of both valuable trees and public infrastructure.
Raising questions about the priorities of the Public Works Department (PWD), particularly the Roads and Buildings wing, Bhagat pointed out that several link roads across Kishtwar district remained incomplete or had yet to be constructed. He said priority should be given to completing pending road projects and developing infrastructure that directly benefits the general public rather than undertaking activities that could raise concerns over the use of public resources.
The senior National Conference leader sought a clear explanation from the concerned authorities regarding the proposed construction work and the reported targeting of Chinar trees. He insisted that the entire matter be examined fairly and transparently, with public interest remaining the foremost consideration.
Emphasising that public property is held in trust for the people, Bhagat urged the administration and concerned departments to take immediate notice of the issue and ensure that no activity is permitted without following the prescribed legal procedures.
He reiterated that protecting public assets, preserving the environment and ensuring accountable governance must remain the primary responsibilities of government departments.