Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 12: Frustrated by continued neglect from the Jammu and Kashmir Government, the Jammu Kashmir Handicapped Association (JKHA) has announced a protest march to the Chief Minister’s residence on February 23.
In a press statement, Abdul Rashid Bhat, president of the Association, strongly criticized both the J&K Administration and the Central Government, accusing them of continuously ignoring the concerns of physically challenged individuals. He stated that while promises have been made in the past, none have been implemented at the ground level.
“No road map has ever been prepared to address our issues step by step. Instead, we are given empty assurances every time we protest, but no concrete action follows,” Bhat said. Highlighting the struggles of educated disabled youth in the region, he pointed out that despite having qualifications, many are forced to work as daily wage labourers due to the lack of opportunities. He further alleged that recruitment agencies consistently disregard the rights of disabled candidates due to horizontal reservation policies.
Bhat also expressed disappointment over the Central Government’s recent budget, claiming that it failed to address the needs of physically challenged individuals. With the J&K Government set to present its budget on March 3, he fears that their community will once again be ignored, as has been the case since the tenure of the National Conference Government under Omar Abdullah.
Announcing the protest, Bhat stated that the Association will gather at Press Enclave in Srinagar before marching to the Chief Minister’s residence, where they plan to stage a sit-in demonstration. He warned that if any untoward incident occurs during the protest, the responsibility will lie solely with the Government.
He also revealed that previous attempts to engage with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Social Welfare Minister Sakeena Itoo for a dialogue have been unsuccessful, as they have not been granted appointment despite repeated requests.
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