Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 5 : Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Waheed Para raised concerns over the environmental impact of ongoing mining activities and large-scale development projects in the region. Para accused a “huge mafia” of being involved in the illegal mining operations, which he claims are contributing to ecological destruction, particularly in the fragile Kashmir region.
Speaking to reporters, Waheed Para highlighted the adverse effects of these activities on the environment. “There is a huge mafia which is doing mining in Jammu & Kashmir. Due to this mining and large-scale development, ecological destruction is happening in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir region, which is a fragile ecology,” he said. Para further emphasized that the PDP has sought an explanation from the environment minister regarding the environmental impact of these ongoing projects in the region. He also stressed the need to protect the environment for the successful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Leader of Opposition (LoP) and BJP MLA Sunil Sharma criticized the ruling National Conference (NC) for not addressing the public’s concerns in the recent Budget session. Sharma claimed that citizens had hoped for a government response to their problems but felt let down by the lack of focus on people’s issues. “Citizens of Jammu and Kashmir were eagerly waiting for the Budget session. People expected that the government would reflect the solution to their problems in this Budget session, but from what has been seen so far, I don’t think this government is serious about public issues,” said Sharma.
Sharma also took aim at PDP leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Waheed Para, accusing them of trying to undermine the peaceful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra. “They try to play the emotional card, but I want to suggest that the party of three MLAs will have difficulty winning even the ward elections,” he added.
The Budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly began on March 3, marking the first budget under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s government following recent elections.