Jammu, Feb 7: Nagrota Member of the Legislative Assembly Devyani Rana, on Saturday, paid tribute to her late father and senior leader Devender Singh Rana, while raising serious concerns over sharp cuts in disaster management allocations and other pressing civic issues affecting the Union Territory.
Addressing the House in her maiden speech during the Budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, while speaking on the Budget presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Rana said the reduction in funds for disaster management was alarming, especially at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is increasingly vulnerable to climate-linked disasters.
“There is a growing need for equitable relief, stronger preparedness and resilient infrastructure. Cutting disaster-related allocations sends a wrong signal when people are facing floods, landslides and extreme weather events,” she said.
Highlighting the plight of sanitation workers, the Nagrota MLA urged the government to take immediate responsibility for those engaged in cleaning public toilets and sanitation facilities.
“These employees perform essential duties with dignity. The government must step in and ensure they are paid regularly and fairly,” she asserted.
Raising concerns over the electricity situation, Rana described the condition of the Power Development Department (PDD) as “deeply disturbing,” particularly in terms of capital expenditure and infrastructure development.
She stressed that power shortages and weak systems continue to trouble people, including in the capital region.
In her maiden speech, Rana reminded the government of its responsibility towards the electorate.
“We have been chosen by the people and sent to this House to serve them. Their problems must be addressed with sincerity and urgency,” she said. (KNC)
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