Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 28: Former Minister and senior Congress leader Raman Bhalla today said that it was most unfortunate that Union Govt was more focused on political issues in J&K at a time when the whole country was battling for its survival and was under strict lockdown to stem the spread of deadly Coronavirus disease.
“This reflects Government’s casual exercise carried out at the bureaucratic level without taking aspirations and expectations of people into consideration,” Bhalla said.
He said J&K has a consumption-driven economy with 23% of its 44 lakh labour force deriving its livelihood from the trading sector and another 7% from the transport sector, adding that due to this double whammy of nested lockdowns and triple tragedy of the communication gag, logistical restrictions and demand shock, havoc has been unleashed to both these labour-intensive sectors of J&K.
Bhalla highlighted colossal and chronic financial problems of J&K’s businesses and households.
Former Minister blamed Government for depriving the Jammu people of basic amenities.
Bhalla claimed that the unprecedented power and water crisis in Jammu highlighted the apathy of the LG Administration which had failed to address the issues of the people.
He said the situation in Jammu province had virtually turned out of control due to the severe shortage of drinking water and worst-ever power crisis during summer.
He said lack of direction and political will have compounded the perception of political uncertainty in J&K whereas the Government should have tried to provide a hope of inclusive development, reconciliation and peace.
The former Minister said Government rather than engaging with aggrieved people with an aim to address their issues, had chosen to tread a path of isolation, arrogance and confrontation contradicting the promises made to people of J&K.
Meanwhile, fulfilling duties and responsibilities of leader of poor and down-trodden in this hour of crisis, former Minister today continued distributing ration and other necessary items among needy and poor families of Gandhi Nagar Constituency.
Today ration items were distributed at Channi Rama Ward -49, Shanker Colony, Mohalla Ravidass, Chaki Mohalla, Chinar Colony and Wave Mall Mohalla.
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