Excelsior Correspondent
BILLAWAR, June 29: Former Minister Dr Manohar Lal Sharma has strongly criticized the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for approving Rs 10,637 crore worth of road and tunnel projects exclusively for the Kashmir region, while completely ignoring Jammu.
Addressing a public meeting in Billawar, Dr Manohar expressed deep disappointment that not a single project was sanctioned for Jammu province, despite urgent infrastructure needs in districts like Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, Samba and Reasi.
He highlighted long-pending projects such as the Mata Bhaleshwari Tunnel, Billawar-Bani via Katli road, Kough road, and Dugani via Kadhiar, which continue to be neglected.
Dr Manohar accused the BJP of repeatedly failing to represent the interests of the Jammu region.
“Out of 19 major projects sanctioned, Jammu has been left out. We have 29 MLAs from the region-why was there no voice raised for Jammu’s rights?” he asked, demanding accountability from local BJP leaders.
He described the move as a glaring example of discrimination and called for an immediate review of the decision by the Union Ministry.
He said that balanced development is only possible if funds are allocated equitably based on regional needs.
Dr Manohar further stressed the need for better connectivity and economic development in the Jammu region through road and infrastructure projects.
He advocated for fair representation from both Jammu and Kashmir in decision-making processes to ensure inclusive and balanced progress.
He said the people of Jammu had shown faith in the BJP, but their aspirations had been ignored.
“It is time to stop this biased approach and work towards equal development of both regions,” he added.
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