Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 8: The local artists of Jammu here today staged a protest demonstration alleging discrimination. The protesters raised slogans against discrimination with Jammu artists.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO
They said that some departments used to allot some art based works to the artists of Jammu but now these departments have been shifted to Srinagar.
“Departments like Song and Drama Division is merged with PIB which is affecting the artists. The government has not allotted any fund for culture. We request the Government that we are on a peaceful protest and if the Government will not listen to us then we will be forced to come on roads,” the artists stated demanding independent Song and Drama Division.
“Sometimes a meagre of Rs. 1000 is paid to an artist. Without TA and DA how will these artists visit Srinagar for receiving that meagre amount,” a lady artist said.
More artists informed that they have rendered some 25-30 years of their life to the field of art.
“We promote our culture like other artists of Punjab and other States do,” another artist told reporters adding if interest of artists is harmed, it will directly affect the Dogra culture.
Still another artist, Happy Gupta said he joined the field of art from his childhood as child artist and witnessed many ups and downs.
“Discrimination with Jammu artists has now increased alarmingly,” he claimed.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
