Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 19: BJP J&K UT Spokesperson, Zorawar Singh Jamwal has launched a sharp attack on the Omar Abdullah-led Government, accusing it of deliberate bias against the Jammu region by withholding crucial development funds meant for the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).
He said that out of the total Rs 160 crore CAPEX budget allocated for JMC for the current financial year, only Rs 119 crore has been sanctioned so far, raising serious concerns over the fate of the remaining funds with barely days left before the financial year closes.
Jamwal pointed out that even the Rs 119 crore was sanctioned only after the BJP raised the issue during October-November last year, questioning the intent and urgency of the Government. In contrast, he said, Rs 138 crore has already been sanctioned to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, leaving only Rs 22 crore pending, which, he added, can still be utilised. He feared that the remaining Rs 41 crore meant for Jammu is unlikely to be used in the limited time left, effectively leading to its lapse.
Calling it a clear case of political discrimination, Jamwal alleged that the Government is intentionally choking development in Jammu despite the district being severely affected by recent flash floods that damaged roads, drains, water supply systems, and other civic infrastructure. “This is not administrative delay but a calculated move to deprive Jammu of its rightful share,” he alleged.
He further alleged that out of the Rs 1700-1800 crore provided by the Centre for flood relief, only a fraction has been allocated for essential works, while several affected areas in Jammu city-including Gujjar Nagar, Gole Gujral, Pouni Chak, Bahu, Khandwal, and Karnaila Chak-have been ignored in the preparation of DPRs for relief and rehabilitation in municipal limits.
Highlighting the ground impact, Jamwal said that the contractors have stopped work due to non-payment and this has brought development activities in Jammu city to a standstill.
Demanding immediate release of pending funds, Jamwal urged the Government to end what he termed as “politics of discrimination” and ensure justice to the people of Jammu.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
