Srinagar, Apr 1 (JKNS): Bhartiya Janta Party Leader and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Wednesday accused the National Conference (NC) of misusing the public mandate, alleging that the government’s decision to allow a private member’s bill seeking amendments to the Land Grants Act is aimed at protecting elite interests rather than safeguarding public assets and the rights of common citizens.
Sharma as per news agency JKNS, said that people who had voted for the NC with the hope that it would stand up for their rights now feel disappointed and betrayed. “It is with deep regret that I say this: your mandate now appears to be used not for the public good, but to protect elite interests—be it Nedous, the Chief Minister’s personal property, or a circle of influential, cocktail-circuit associates,” he said.
Referring to the proposed legislation, Sharma said a private member’s bill titled “Amendments to the Land Grants Act” was introduced and the Chief Minister did not hesitate in allowing it. “This raises serious concerns. The move seems to be setting the stage for re-leasing vast tracts of government land at throwaway prices, continuing a pattern that has persisted for decades,” he added.
He questioned the implications of the move for the general public, stating, “What message does this send to the common citizen?” He further said it is unfortunate that instead of protecting public resources and ensuring justice for marginalized sections, the government appears to be enabling and favouring a privileged few who have long benefited at the cost of the poor.
Calling the development deeply disappointing, Sharma termed it a “betrayal of trust” and said such decisions undermine the faith of the people in the government. (JKNS)
