The Jammu Development Authority has sparked protests after demolishing a dozen shops belonging to displaced Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu city without issuing notices. The demolition drive targeted shops built near the Muthi camp three decades ago, leading to demands for action against the officials responsible. Relief Commissioner Arvind Karwani has vowed to construct new shops for the affected families in the area.
Demolition Sparks Protests Over Return of Kashmiri Hindus
The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) has sparked outrage and protests after demolishing a dozen shops belonging to displaced Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu city. The demolition drive targeted shops built near the Muthi camp three decades ago, leaving the affected families devastated and demanding action against the responsible officials.
Background
Kashmiri Pandits were forced to flee their homes in the Kashmir Valley in 1990 after being targeted by militants. Since then, they have been living in exile, mainly in Jammu and Delhi. In recent years, there have been efforts to facilitate their return to the Valley.
In 2016, the government announced a package of Rs 5,000 crore for the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits. This included the construction of 5,000 transit accommodations for the displaced families. However, the implementation of this package has been slow and has faced hurdles, including security concerns.
Recent Events
The JDA's demolition of the shops belonging to Kashmiri Pandits has reignited fears and anger among the community. The families claim that they were not given any prior notice, leaving them homeless and without a source of income.
Relief Commissioner Arvind Karwani has vowed to construct new shops for the affected families in the area. However, the community is demanding a thorough investigation into the demolition and punishment for the officials responsible.
Top 5 FAQs
Q1: Why were the shops demolished? A: The JDA claimed that the shops were built illegally on government land.
Q2: Why were the families not given prior notice? A: The JDA has not provided a clear explanation for this.
Q3: What is the government doing to address the issue? A: The Relief Commissioner has promised to build new shops for the affected families.
Q4: What are the demands of the community? A: The community is demanding an investigation into the demolition, punishment for the responsible officials, and long-term rehabilitation measures.
Q5: What is the current status of Kashmiri Pandits' return to the Kashmir Valley? A: The return of Kashmiri Pandits has been slow and has faced challenges, including security concerns. However, the government has stated that it is committed to facilitating their safe and dignified return to their homes.
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