JAMMU, May 14: Raman Bhalla, Working President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), on Wednesday continued his mass contact programme by visiting Nanak Nagar in Ward-43 of Jammu, where he interacted with local residents, traders, youth and senior citizens regarding various civic and public issues affecting the area.
During the interaction, residents highlighted problems including irregular water supply, damaged roads, poor sanitation, erratic electricity supply, unemployment among youth and rising inflation impacting household expenses. Several people also sought improvement in civic infrastructure and basic amenities in Nanak Nagar and adjoining localities.
Prominent persons present on the occasion included Kulbushan Sharma, former Corporator, Jasvinder Lucky, Sanjay Murli, Avtar Singh, Ashwani Sethi, Babli Madam and Sanjeev Katal along with local residents and Congress workers.
Addressing the gathering, Raman Bhalla expressed concern over the unemployment situation among educated youth and the increasing prices of essential commodities. He said inflation has placed an additional burden on middle-class families, small traders and daily wage earners who are struggling with economic uncertainty and limited employment opportunities.
The senior Congress leader also raised the issue of restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that people are disappointed over delays in fulfilling commitments related to democratic empowerment and equitable development. He said the absence of a fully empowered elected government has widened the gap between the administration and the public, resulting in unresolved grievances.
Highlighting civic concerns in Jammu city, Bhalla said residents continue to face problems related to inadequate drainage systems, traffic congestion, poor maintenance of lanes and drains, irregular sanitation services and shortage of basic facilities in several areas. He stressed that development must be reflected through visible improvements in infrastructure and efficient delivery of public services at the grassroots level.
Bhalla further raised several national issues, including unemployment, inflation and growing economic disparity, stating that farmers, small businessmen and youth across the country are facing increasing economic pressures. He emphasised the need for policies promoting inclusive growth, social harmony and economic stability while safeguarding the interests of common citizens.
Reiterating the commitment of the Congress party, Raman Bhalla said the party would continue to highlight public issues both inside and outside the legislature and intensify its efforts for restoration of full statehood, protection of democratic institutions, employment generation and strengthening of welfare measures.
During the programme, local residents demanded immediate attention towards improving civic infrastructure in Nanak Nagar and surrounding areas. Bhalla assured them that their grievances would be strongly projected before the concerned authorities and efforts would be made to ensure timely redressal of genuine public concerns.