Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Apr 1: Provincial president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), Rattan Lal Gupta (Adv) raised serious concerns over the prolonged neglect of far-flung and hilly areas of district Kathua, which have suffered over the past decade under previous administrations.
The local NC leaders Tirath Ram District president Billawar (Org), apprised the senior functionaries of the challenges faced by residents in these remote regions, exacerbated by the apathy of earlier Governments. He further highlighted acute shortages in essential services such as healthcare, education, and basic civic amenities.
“Areas like Bani, Duggan, Lohai Malhar and Machhrdi have been particularly overlooked, lacking adequate health centers, functional Government schools, and essential infrastructure,” he said.
Addressing the workers’ meeting at Dengi Sambli Billawar of District Kathua, Rattan Lal Gupta stated that previous Governments had done nothing to address the grievances of people in these remote areas. He noted that even the Prime Minister acknowledged this neglect during his Mann Ki Baat program when a young girl’s viral social media post from Lohai brought attention to the deplorable condition of her Government school. “Even after such a poignant appeal, the administration has failed to take corrective action,” he remarked.
Emphasizing the proactive stance of the National Conference, Rattan Lal Gupta asserted that under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, the National Conference is dedicated to addressing these longstanding issues and ensuring the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir’s underserved regions. NC remains committed to bridging the developmental gap and uplifting those who have been ignored for far too long, he added.
Earlier in the meeting, Jia Lal Gupta, a social activist and retired engineer along with dozens supporters, joined the National Conference in the presence of senior party leaders. Welcoming the new members, Gupta encouraged them to actively contribute to strengthening the party’s foundation and working diligently for the betterment of the community.
Senior leaders Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, Provincial Secretary, Bimla Luthra former MLA and senior NC leader, criticized previous Governments for their inaction regarding women’s welfare.
TP Singh Aman, Provincial president of YNC and Pardeep Bali Provincial secretary also spoke on the occasion. Sapna Gill, Block president Jammu East Women Wing and Jyoti Akbar, Block vice president and others were also present.
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