Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 8: Jammu and Kashmir Handicapped Association has announced that its ongoing protest at Dogra Chowk has entered its ninth day, asserting that the agitation will continue until the long-pending demands of specially abled persons are addressed by the Union Territory Government.
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In a statement issued by the Association, the protesters said that despite the passage of eight days, their resolve remains firm. During this period, the community organized two peaceful marches towards the Legislative Assembly, both of which were stopped by the police. The Association expressed disappointment over the UT Budget 2026-27, presented on February 6, stating that it completely ignored the needs and concerns of persons with disabilities. Terming the budget as unacceptable, the Association said it failed to provide any meaningful relief, policy support or recognition to their sector.
The Association, however, acknowledged the support extended by certain MLAs who visited the protest site at Dogra Chowk to express solidarity and boost the morale of the protesters. It specifically named MLAs Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami, Waheed Ur Rehman Para and Reyaz Ahmed Khan, expressing confidence that they would raise the issues of specially abled persons effectively on the floor of the House.
Appealing to opposition parties, including the BJP, the Association urged them to rise above political differences and extend collective support to issues concerning marginalized sections, emphasizing that disability rights should be treated as a non-partisan matter.
The statement further revealed that following a halted rally on February 6, the Social Welfare and Revenue Departments had given written assurances for a meeting with either the Lieutenant Governor or the Chief Minister by Monday or Tuesday. The Association said it remains hopeful that the assurance will be honoured.
Warning of intensified agitation, the Association said failure to hold the promised meeting or address their legitimate demands would force them to escalate their protest.
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