Protest of evacuated Gujjar families enters 11th day

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 21: Joint Action Committee Roop Nagar has continued its peaceful protest dharna against alleged selective approach of Jammu Development Authority (JDA), which led to dismantling of some concrete residential structures of nomadic Gujjar families a few days back.
With the participation and support of all sections of society, majority community, politicians irrespective of their political affiliation and members of civil society, the ongoing dharna entered into 11th consecutive day on Friday.
“People from all sections of society participate in routine from the day one in dharna protest extending their support to the tribal community which remained neglected for years and kept isolated after being targeted by JDA on selective basis,” said one of the protesting tribal leaders.
He said that the politicians are coming on daily basis as do the social and prominent citizens along with the locals.
“Everyone has extended support which shows that they know JDA has done injustice to the poor tribal community,” another tribal leader said.
A member of civil society who participated in dharna, alleged that some elements tried their best to create confusion and divide society but they have failed in their attempts with the united face of the people irrespective of their religious identity.
“JDA has provided an opportunity to the people from all sections of society to get united against the injustice and unlawful acts which needs strong condemnation,” a member of JAC said.
The social activists said that the Govt must intervene and reinstate the snatched land in favour of the displaced tribal community. “It is a humanitarian issue which should not be looked at differently. If today tribals are targeted, other sections of society can also be the victims tomorrow. Hence, we have to unite in these circumstances,” they added.
However, no officials of administration came to listen to the grievances of the protesting people.