Good roads vital for sound economic growth: Saroori

Demanded for early sanctioning of new road schemes for Inderwal constituency

Asked Forest minister that Gujjars and Bakerwals should not be harassed in forests and allowed to repair their Kothas

JAMMU, JANUARY 22: - Member of Legislative Assembly from Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori said that an effective communication network is essential not only for meeting the requirements of travel and transport but also for rapid socio-economic development of the state and the country, adding that good connectivity and economic growth are linked with each other. He said road connectivity is even more important because it is directly linked to the promotion of tourism”, Saroori said while participating on the grants of Roads and Building department.

Saroori while strongly advocating for construction of proposed 10-Km long (5km of two tubes each) Singpora-Vailoo tunnel connecting Kishtwar with Kashmir valley, said it will help to provide a nearest all weather alternate highway between Jammu to Srinagar and will help in its holistic development. He said on completion, the tunnel will go a long way in developing a mega Tourism Circuit comprising of Lakhanpur-Bani-Basoli-Chatergala-Bhaderwah-Kishtwar-Chatroo and Kashmir Valley, thereby bringing socio-economic prosperity in the entire region.

He has also raised public related demands including detail projects should be furnished to connect the villages which are having population of 100 souls under core net work programme of PMGSY, Immediate upgradation of Kishtwar-Sinthan road which is in deplorable condition, blacktopping on all the link roads in Inderwal, Release of compensation under PMGSY, CRF and NABARD for smooth construction of roads without the hindrance of land and structure holders, demanded sanctioning of 4 no. roads under CRF for Inderwal Constituency, Opening of all snow bound roads in Doda and Kishtwar, release of wages in favour of gain Collies who are engaged for maintenance of roads, enhancement of funds on district level in road sector, revision of rates for stage II PMGSY road projects, regularization of all casual labourers, Temporary Gang Coolies, release of state matching share for roads under execution through NABARD for their speedy completion, immediate release of funds against work done liabilities in Chatroo, Kishtwar and Gandoh R&B divisions, release of funds for completion of Dak Bunglows at Chingam, Jakyas, Malanoo, Sinthan, Kuriya, Thakrie, Sarthal, Mangthalla and Sigdi.

Speaking on the grants of Forest department, Saroori asked the forest minister Lal Singh that Gujjars and Bakerwals should not be harassed in forests and allowed to repair their Kothas.“Gujjars and Bakerwals shouldn’t be harassed in forests and be allowed to repair their temporary Kothas and Dhokas.” “They are being harassed while repairing their Dhokas,” he alleged adding that they have rights over the forestland. He also questioned the minister over allocation of funds under the CAMPA scheme. “I don’t want to tell where funds have gone,” he said.

He hailed the Minister for handing over of timber distribution work to JKSFC but he demanded for opening of more timber depots in Inderwal Constituency. He asked the government to upgrade the damaged infrastructure of forest and its allied Department's assets under CAMPA in his Constituency. He also pleaded for enhancing of compensation being given to man-animal conflict cases. He appreciated the government's decision for engagement of Rehber-e-Janglat policy. He pointed out that the Forest Department has not issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for clearance of eight sanctioned PMGSY roads in his Constituency and urged the government for early issuance of the same so that the construction works on these prestigious road projects to be taken up at an earliest.

Earlier as soon as proceedings of the House began, Congress MLA G. M Saroori slammed the police for use of force by police on Gujjars who were protesting against the murder of eight-year-old girl in Hiranagar area of Kathua district echoed in the Legislative Assembly on Monday, with legislators seeking action against the policemen involved in the lathi-charge. Many people were injured in police action. This is not the way,” Saroori said.

Saroori expressed concern over curtailment of 70 percent of funds by the centre in the irrigation sector for JK

Demanded inclusion of Kishtwar in Saffron mission

Advocated for opening of Munsiff Court at Chatroo; rued additional charge syndrome to BDO’s in RDD department

JAMMU, JANUARY 20: - Senior Congress lawmaker from Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori while speaking during Agriculture department grant, expressed concern over the curtailment of 70 percent of funds by the centre in the irrigation sector for the Jammu and Kashmir state. He said the move has taken a heavy toll and affected agriculture production and urged the government to ensure the release of more funds from centre to ensure better irrigation facilities in the state especially in Kandi areas.

Saroori has castigated the government for failing to give due 'impetus' to the agriculture and it's allied sectors in Chenab Valley wherein he termed agriculture sector to be the backbone of state's economy. He said department which is suffering a lot because of 'ill planning', 'lack of coordination' and 'non-seriousness' of the government. He said that over 75 percent of people are dependent on agriculture in order feed themselves and their family. He exhorted the need for chalking out a comprehensive plan in order to increase the productivity by three fold whether its horticulture, agriculture, apiculture, and sericulture every sector is in shambles, which speaks loud about the government's seriousness towards the vital sector.

He sought focused attention of Government towards the Chenab valley which has been neglected. He demanded organizing of awareness camp about various Government schemes at block level so that the famers could avail the benefit of such schemes. He said that 90 percent area in his constituency is rain fed and it needs to be covered under lift irrigation schemes for which more funds are needed to be allocated.

While recalling the decisions taken during the district development board (DDB) meetings in agriculture department by the Late Mufti Muhammed Sayeed regarding establishment of Rajma Villages, Saffron Villages, Walnut Villages gathered dust only in papers which is highly unfortunate. He pressed the need for establishment of Rajma villages one at each block, Seed centres at Block level, plantation of High density fruit plants on the pattern of Srinagar in Chenab valley, Mushroom training centers at Chatroo, Mugalmaidan, Sarthal, Bunjwah, Thathri, Kahara, Bhalessa and others.

Saroori urged the government to incentivise cocoon production by providing marketing facility. He also appealed government to impart training to the farmers of his constituency about the use of modern cultivation techniques for better yield. He also appealed to include Kishtwar in Saffron mission as the area produces a good quality of saffron.

While speaking on grants of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, Saroori rued the additional charge syndrome the department and ask the Minister Abdul Haq Khan to look into the issue for smooth and hassle free functioning of the department. He said that a single Block Development Officer holds the charge of several blocks added that it is very difficult for the one BDO to monitor the functioning of the department and called for immediate posting of BDO’s in District Kishtwar against the vacant blocks. He said that Kishtwar District also faces the shortage of manpower which is also hampering the functioning of the department. He also called for holding of regular Gram Sabha meets and advice the Minister to issue advance notices a week before holding Gram Sabha. He said that several new job cards are yet to be enrolled and called for immediate issuance of job cards to new person. He also raises the issue of non payments under IHL and MGNREGA and demanded for early clearance of pending liabilities, completion of Panchayat Ghars, regularization MGREGA employees. He also advocated for opening of Munsiff Court at Chatroo while keeping in account the huge population of around 40000 souls in consideration.

While participating in Animal and Husbandry sheep department grants; Saroori said this sector is very important and it needs focus of the Government. “This is a big sector and it has been ignored when it can tackle the unemployment problem”, he added. Saroori said that Government should use new technologies to improve Animal and Sheep Husbandry sector and should send teams in far flung areas for training. He also demanded improvement of fishery hatcheries in Inderwal constituency and demanded holding of awareness camps for breeders and opening of new animal husbandry centres in his constituency.

Opposition held protest, Stage walk out from JK Assembly over rape & murder of 8 year old girl in Kathua

Termed murder of 8 year old minor girl as a failure of government: Saroori

Asks government to set 24 hour deadline to police for tracing the culprits

JAMMU, JANUARY 19: - Massive uproar and protest today rocks JK Assembly over the murder and rape of a Bakerwal girl in Kathua District of J&K, who body was found yesterday from bushes near Hiranagar Kathua.

Raising the issue in J&K Assembly today, Congress MLA from Inderwal Ghulam Muhammad Saroori raises the issue and termed the murder of this 8 year old minor girl as a failure of government added that the girl was missing since last eight days and his dead body was found yesterday. He said that police was sleeping all these days as a result of which she was brutally murder and raped. He demanded action against SSP, Dy. SP and SHO concern who was sleeping over the matter and fails to recover her.

After not satisfied with the reply given by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Abdul Rehman Veeri, the entire opposition stages a walk out from the assembly and questions Government, s "Beti Bachao Beti Padao" slogan. As per the statement of Parliamentary Affairs Minister inside the Assembly, the body of an eight-year-old girl, who had gone missing a week ago from Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua, was found in bushes in the Hiranagar area of the district on Wednesday. There were serious injuries on the face of the said nomad girl. He stated that angry nomads blocked the Jammu-Pathankot highway today, demanding justice for the little girl. The police have formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the case. "We have filed an FIR. A SIT has been constituted to be headed by Dy. SP level officer," said Veeri. He says boards of doctors have conducted the post-mortem and they are waiting for the medical report.

However G. M Saroori along with other MLAs including MLA from Kangan Mian Altaf Ahmed, MLA from Banihal Vikar Rasool Wani and asks the government to set 24 hour deadline to police for tracing the culprits involved in brutal rape and murder of the girl. "Why this thing only happens in Kathua - - where is Lal Singh - - why he is silent " said Saroori also tears the paper and throws it towards Speaker in protest.

Government needs to take innovative measures for revitalizing the Revenue department: Saroori

Implement Ganie Commission report; Demanded eviction of 6,242 kanal wakf land

JAMMU, JANUARY 18: - Calling Revenue Department as the backbone of the administration, Senior Congress Lawmaker from Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori G. M Saroori said government needs to take innovative measures for revitalizing the department by undertaking digitization of records, constitution of high level committee for Land Use Planning besides committee for evacuee property.

While taking part in the discussion on Demand of Grants for Revenue, Parliamentary Affairs, Hajj and Auqaf departments in Legislative Assembly, Saroori said that government last year announced that a separate new department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction has been created which totally failed to do any good for the common masses.

Saroori said that the said that lot of compensation cases are pending in the state added that there is need to hold district level meetings to be chaired by the Minister himself to clear compensation and other revenue related cases. He laid stress that section 6 and 7 should be continue as earlier like DC was disposing off final award at District level and not by Commissioner Secretary for which Powers was decentralized. He said that title verification should be given on time and should be without corruption. He said there is no RR plan policy and rued delay in sanctioning of RR Plan for Dunadi, Kalnai-2 and other power projects of Doda and Kishtwar districts which is yet to be sanctioned. He said that if authorities fail to come up with proper RR plan people of the areas will close the projects.

He stress for implementation of Ganai commission report in letter and spirit in which new administrative units were sanctioned including Thakrie as Tehsil, Sarthal as tehsil & block, Kontwara as block, Chilli as tehsil, Kilhotran as tehsil, Bella as tehsil and others were sanctioned, but the government failed to give administrative approval which will benefit directly to the poor people of far flung areas.

Saroori asked why there is delay in increasing of the salary of Chowkidar’s and Lambardar’s when cabinet has approved the increasing of the salary and added that there should be one numberdar and Chowkidar in every panchayat so that system will become good. He also demanded fulfilling of vacant posts in the revenue department and said many Naib Tehsildar posts are vacant including Kuchal, Lass Saroor, Tatani, Jakyas Chingam, Patnazi, Karool and others in Inderwal constituency. He said that selections of Naib Tehsildar posts are pending since past three years which should be filled on fast track basis and should be on Urdu knowing base. He said that there is need to fill up vacant posts of Patwari and girdawar’s and demanded construction of Naiyabat and tehsil buildings at an earliest.

Demanded directions to all DC to send relief file to GAD for Rs 1 lakh and 50 thousands to transport department of all accidents that took place during past two years in Chenab Valley, appointment of SRO 43 cases or compensation, issuance of green card to land owners and lastly demanded that the revenue records should be online. He also sought written response from the government on the points raised by the legislators during Zero Hour in the Assembly. He also demanded immediate eviction of 6,242 kanal and 7 marla Waqf land are under illegal occupation of the army, paramilitary forces, government departments and private individuals in the Jammu and action against the grabbers. He said that government should made efforts to retrieve the Waqf land and should take up the issue with the Home department and other departments to either vacate the land or pay user charges as per the provisions of the Waqf Act, 2001.

It is a Shahi budget

Saroori hit out at Finance Minister for ignoring 80% rural areas in state budget

Demanded railway line for Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch; Advocated for establishment of Hill Development Council in Chenab Valley

JAMMU, JANUARY 16: - Senior Congress Lawmaker from Inderwal, Ghulam Muhammad Saroori today hit out a finance Minister Dr. Haseeb Drabu for ignoring 80% rural areas of the state in its annual budget added that the state budget was prepared with an aim to benefit 20% Urban areas of the state that too giving benefit to influential, industrialists and upper class businessman.

Speaking in JK Assembly, Saroori said the budget presented by the finance minister was shahi (royal) budget. He said it had nothing to offer to the people living in border and remote areas. He said the finance minister spoke about digital India but “people in my constituency don’t have any (cellphone) tower”. “So how will your digital India give them any benefits," he said. He said the budget had nothing for people living in far flung areas like Karnah, Keran, Gurez, Doda and other areas in Chenab valley. "Will your budget offers anything to people living in these areas where road connectivity is only 20 percent?" Saroori asked.

Saroori advocated for establishment of Hill Development Council in Chenab Valley so that the rural areas of Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban could be developed at par with capital cities. He said that the government fails to turn the successive budgets into reality added that due to broken promises, the people are disappointed. He said that the fiscal figures presented by the government are hypothetical which include the abolishing of Treasury System in the state.

He also accused the BJP leaders of getting the Rattle Power Project closed, MLA Doda Shakti Parihar and MLA Bhaderwah Dilip Parihar took strong exception to the allegations and launched counter attack. Usman Majid and some other Congress MLAs were seen supporting Saroori while R S Pathania among a few BJP legislators also raised voice in contesting the allegations. Saroori did not stop here and went ahead with the allegation claiming that Backward Area Development fund was diverted by the Deputy Commissioner Doda on the instance of BJP MLA to construct a stadium. “This fund was meant for developmental works in remote and backward areas but the same was diverted for construction of a stadium, which is of no use for the people living in remote pockets under extremely poor conditions,” said Saroori and warned that `Allah’ would not forgive the ruling party members for their guilt of depriving the poor people of development by snatching their share.

The commotion erupted when Saroori, while taking part in the budget discussion, charged the State Government with failure to take decisions thus resulting in non-implementation of much needed schemes in Power sector besides stalling Rattle Power Project. As BJP MLA Shakti Parihar stood from his seat pointing out that the Rattle Power Project was initiated and also stopped during the previous regime, Saroori retorted that the project was got stalled by the BJP leaders after they held a closed door meeting with the company officials. “I can give proof of your involvement in getting the project stalled, let the investigation is ordered and if proved wrong, I will tender apology,” Saroori said while pointing out that BJP MLA was one of the contractors in the project.

Saroori said that the government creates the panic among the people by implementing GST and demonetization of the currency and demanded for abolishing of toll tax at Lakhanpur and Nagrota. He said that no benefits were given to Saffron growers of Kishtwar District. He said that the budget has no mention of connecting Kishtwar District and Rajouri /Poonch with railway line and was also silent on its previous claims of losses under Indus Water Treaty, no mention of implementation of Mehmood Ur Rehman commission, Rangarajan Committee and Sageer Committee report. He said that under bad pocket money, Kishtwar District including his constituency was totally ignored. He said that the promise made by the government in Agenda of Alliance are yet to see the light of the day added that instead the government are busy in raking up issues like 370, 35 A while government fails to manage return of power projects.

He though congratulated the Government for proposal of reduction of Tax on Walnut, medi-claim policy for all employees and other employee friendly measures, provisions for construction of bridges, other infra projects. However, Saroori asserted for creating a provision for construction of Sudmahadev and Singpora - Vailoo tunnels and demanded for adequate fund allocation for the same. He also remarked on lack of internet connectivity in various rural and far-flung areas of the State and demanded for improvement measures in this regard so that aim of enhanced digital connectivity Pan-India is fulfilled.

Saroori also requested for sufficient funds for undertaking developmental works at rural areas in his Constituency, including works for macadamization. He also appreciated the government for regularization of casual labours, other workers and asked for inclusion of Anganwari and Asha workers under the said reform and demanded for their regularisation with full service benefits.

Only Congress can ensure a dignified life with safety and without fear: Saroori

J&K passing through difficult times, Only Congress can ensure the lasting peace and development: Newly joined workers

Senior PDP leader among seven dozens of PDP and BJP workers joined Congress

Conducted an extensive tour of Nandana, Phagsoo

THATHRI, JANUARY 13: - In a boost to the Congress party in Phagsoo Thathri region, Senior PDP leader Altaf Hussain along with his supporters joined the party in presence of Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congresss Committee (JKPCC), Vice president, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori.

Addressing different groups of people at various places of Thathri, Nandana, Phagsoo areas, Saroori said, Congress is the only viable democratic option for self-respecting people, particularly in a State like Jammu & Kashmir, because here the present dispensation PDP and BJP, has in its bid to continue enjoying power, helplessly succumbed to dynasty politics and yielded space to self-serving regional parties with no accountability. This has resulted in mis-governance, corruption, nepotism and rampant misappropriation in various schemes by the present state government.

Saroori said that aim of our party is not grab power but to restore dignity and honour of the people. “Our only desire to make Jammu and Kashmir an Island of Peace and to establish lasting peace in this sub-continent”, he said and claimed that people have realized that Congress is the only party which can ensure for all of them a dignified life with safety and without fear.

He further said that Congress is the only truly secular party because its ethos teaches the practice of justice and fair-play for one and all without discrimination or distinction. Those who raise the slogans of unity are in fact trying to befool people by instigating them in the name of religion while they themselves are not committed to any religion or faith, he added. He said that he always advises a Muslim to be a true Muslim and a Hindu to be a true Hindu, because if each one of them follows his respective religion faithfully, we will automatically have nothing but feeling of love and brotherhood for each other. Those who indulge in rhetoric of “division” are, in fact, not loyal to any religion and are therefore, neither true Hindu nor true Muslim, he added.

Welcoming the newly joined workers into the party fold, Saroori congratulated and said that Altaf Hussain has the capability to work for the party and for the overall development of the Nandana Phagsoo areas of Thathri. Saroori while welcoming the new entrant in Congress, also said that the youth is the future of our state who can shoulders the responsibilities of bringing a revolution to end up culture of nepotism and favoritism. He further added the new entrants will play an important role to play in building peace, prosperity, development and to build the party structure and strengthen the Party at grass-root level in the Thathri belt.

Exuding confidence in the leadership of the Congress, the new entrants said that they have decided to join the party owing to its pro-people and revolutionary policies. They said Jammu and Kashmir is presently passing through the difficult times and it is only credible leadership of the Congress which not only can ensure the lasting peace and development but will take the State to new heights of development and prosperity.

PDP-BJP failing to win the hearts of people of the state: Saroori

Lashed out at the BJP for total surrender over the promises made to the people: Thakur Balbir Singh

Five dozens PDP & BJP workers joined Congress party

Saroori, Balbir addressed day long Congress workers convention at Chatroo

CHATROO, JANUARY 10: - Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), Vice President Ghulam Mohammad Saroori lashed out at both State and Centre Govts for failing to win the hearts of people citing the reason as malicious campaign being launched against the people, especially the Special Status of the State and interference into Islam religion.

Addressing a large gathering, Saroori said ruling dispensation of PDP BJP is responsible for the uncertainty and anguish among the people in all the three regions of the State, after securing votes from the people failed them on every count leading to the restlessness and confusion in the entire State.

Saroori hit out at PDP and BJP for the deteriorating situation in the State and blamed both for failing to create an atmosphere of peace, as a result, country & the State is passing though very crucial phase leading to the deep alienation among people. People are subjected to mental torture by the State Govt in order to hide its failures, for the fact, PDP BJP has miserably failed to deliver. The misrule and mismanagement on their part has added woes to the people, there seems no end to uncertainty prevailing in the State.

Censuring both PDP BJP for failing to come up to the expectations of the people, Saroori said people have realized that their vote to PDP BJP inspite of bring respite has brought miseries to them, they have also realized they have been forced to vote by playing with their emotions, which is indicative of the double standards, betrayal on the part of PDP BJP, as a result there is great disappointment among the people in all the three regions, he said.

Saroori said Congress party has always taken care of urges and aspirations of the people, while having worked as a bridge between the people and the regions, but this Govt is doing everything to divide the regions, rather they have created regional imbalance in order to intact their vote banks, but I want to tell both PDP BJP that people have decided to oust both of them, for the fact, they have seen darkest days of PDP BJP rule, he felt confident that people will vote them out of power in the future elections. He added that ruling dispensation in the State is banking on politics of deceit exploited people on various counts, he promised that Congress party will expose the PDP BJP and will make them accountable and answerable to people.

He also urged upon the Party Cadres to launch a door to door campaign against the anti people policies of the Govt and work hard to resolve the problems confronting people.

Addressing the gathering Thakur Balbir Singh (MLC), lashed out at the BJP for its total surrender over the promises made to the people of Jammu region and blamed that present government of holding out discrimination to the Jammu region on all fronts. He said that BJP compromised on all issues and slogans for the sake of power and they stand badly exposed. He questioned the role of BJP towards their ideology and commitments while power sharing with PDP.

Thakur Balbir Singh accused the PDP of "betraying and back stabbing" people in 2014 by aligning with the BJP, saying the party sacrificed it's ideology for the sake of power, and did not even cared about the emotions of the people, who voted for them to defeat the RSS from implementing its communal agenda in the state and alleged that the "unholy alliance" between the PDP and the BJP, for the sake of power, has "disturbed the socio- political scenario" in the state, as a result, people were feeling "unsafe and threatened".

Among others who addressed the convention included Haji Ghulam Qadir Sheikh, Hafiz Ali Mohd, Ghulam Mohd Kohli, Santosh Kumar, Bidya Lal Sharma, Altaf Hussain Malik, Firdous Ahmed Mingnoo, Mohd Rafi, Mohd Amin Naik, Chowdhary Noor Din told the gathering that people of entire J&K state has suffered immensely due to the mismanagement and misrule by the ruling dispensation. He said both the parties (PDP and BJP) have failed the people in every respect as a result there is a deep alienation among the people in all the three regions of the State.

Later another impressive function was organized at Dak Bungalow Chatroo to welcome five dozens PDP and BJP workers into Congress party in presence of Mr. Saroori and Mr. Balbir.

Play the role of unifying force and defeat the designs of communal forces: Saroori to workers

PDP-BJP failed on every count leading to the restlessness and confusion in the entire State: Thakur Balbir Singh

Hundreds of PDP & BJP workers from Kahara joined in Congress party

KAHARA, JANUARY 09: - Urging the Party Cadres and leaders to play the role of unifying force and defeat the designs of communal and divisive forces hells bent upon to disturb the communal harmony and secular fabric in the regions of the State, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), Vice President, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori stressed upon the need to isolate anti peace elements creating wedge between the people to take advantage of the situations. He also blamed both Centre and State Govts for not coming upto the expectations of the people, as a result people in all the three regions feel betrayed and backstabbed, Saroori was addressing a day long political convention at Kahara area of Inderwal constituency.

Addressing the Party Convention, Saroori urged the party leaders to defeat the designs of anti-peace elements creating fissures in the communities in order to take full advantage of the disturbances to serve their vested interests. He said Congress is committed for maintaining integrity of the State and is capable of defeating the forces harming the tradition of unity, together & brotherhood in the State.

Saroori said Jammu and Kashmir is a unique state in which people of every religions live in an atmosphere of friendship and brotherhood and respect the emotions of each other, but there are certain forces visible and invisible who want to disturb this age old tradition of communal harmony and brotherhood, but Congress Party being the only unifying force will defeat their designs and won’t allow any external or internal force to vitiate the atmosphere of peace in the State. Congress Party has a history of serving and strengthening the people and would continue to remain steadfast in strengthening the people

Referring to the failure of the State & Centre Govts, Saroori said that not only people of the Country, but the State also have fully realized that both Centre Govt and State Govt have exploited them on certain sensitive issues for the sake of coming into the Power. The promises made with the people of Jammu region, Chenab Valley by PDP-BJP in the State have not been fulfilled as yet, as a result the people of the state feel alienated. He termed the current unrest in the Valley as the outcome of the misrule and anti-people polices of the PDP-BJP Coalition, who have promised a lot to address the concerns of the people, but nothing was done on their Part. He further said that the people have realized they have been back stabbed by PDP & BJP for the sake of power.

Reminding the people about the steps taken under the leaders by the UPA I and UPA for the overall development for the Chenab Valley particularly for Sub-division Thathri and Gandoh, Saroori said that Ghulam Nabi Azad sahab left no stone unturned to bring the this region at par with other parts of the Country, but the present Govt at Centre seems to be in a state of confusion on this front also and is not able to carry forward the works already sanctioned by UPA Ist and UPA IInd, such as Rs. 100 crores RGGVY phase II project and other important developmental projects. He said this is unfortunate that Centre has not been able to understand the basic issues confronting people of not only Chenab Valley, but Jammu and Kashmir regions also, who are grappled with great difficulties in respect of development, employment etc.

While addressing the gathering, Thakur Balbir Singh (MLC), said coalition partners (PDP BJP) after securing votes from the people failed them on every count leading to the restlessness and confusion in the entire State.

Balbir Singh hit out at Centre and State Govt for the deteriorating situation in the State and blamed both for failing to create an atmosphere of peace, as a result, country & the State is passing though very crucial phase leading to the deep alienation among people. People are subjected to mental torture by the State Govt in order to hide its failures, for the fact, PDP BJP has miserably failed to deliver. The misrule and mismanagement on their part has added woes to the people, there seems no end to uncertainty prevailing in the State.

Congress MLC said all the promises made to the people by PDP and BJP after securing votes from them on sensitive issues, have fallen flat, people have realized that they have been misled very badly on the AoA between PDP BJP, Unemployment has risen considerably, developmental process started by the UPA I & UPA II has come to standstill, lack of policy on the part of State Govt has disturbed the socio political scenario of the State.

On the occasion hundreds of PDP and BJP workers from various parts of Kahara block joined Congress in presence of Mr. Saroori and Mr. Balbir Singh.

Those who addressed the gathering included Chowdhary Farooq Ahmed, Haji Ghulam Mohd, Mahinder Singh Parihar, Abdul Qayoom, Master Bashir Ahmed Sirwal, Zulfikar Ali Wani, Mohd Ramzan, Jaffar Hussain, Asgar Hussain Khangi, Sabdar Hussain Wani, Mehboob Mir, Sher Mohd, Jaswant Singh and others.

Only Congress has the potential to effectively take up aspirations and wishes of the people: G. M Saroori

Inaugurates extension food store at Bazdevna Tagood and Bungam Tagood to sub-centre Tagood road

TAGOOD, JANUARY 07: - Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), Vice President and MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori said that Jammu and Kashmir being one of the most important State of the country, there is need that aspirations and wishes of the people should be effectively taken up and only Congress has the potential to do so.

While addressing the Congress workers in Tagood area of tehsil Mugalmaidan, Saroori reminded the gathering that Congress had proved that it was the only credible voice of the people of Jammu and Kashmir since 1947. “Unlike other political parties Congress has never bartered aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the sake of power”, he said and added that Congress had scripted a new chapter in the history of J&K and restored dignity and honour of the people Jammu and Kashmir.

“Congress has pioneered a political, developmental and economic agenda to establish sustainable peace and development in the state and to fulfill the wishes and aspirations of all regions and sub-regions of the State”, he said adding that "our party, through its pro-peace and development policies, has consolidated reconciliation process and facilitated the efforts of establishing peace in the state". “With the support of the people, want to change the present ineffective system that prevailed during present dispensation PDP and BJP”, he said and added that it was aim of the Congress to establish a system where every sections of the society would get equal opportunities of development and upliftment.

Saroori said whether it is the youth, Government employees, women or even children, the present Government has hurt every section of the society. He said while Congress created positive land marks during its brief period in Government with PDP and then with NC but the present government PDP-BJP on the contrary has left a trail of disasters during the period of its almost more than three years rule.

On the occasion Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) suffered a major jolt in Tagood belt when the whole Bazdevna Tagood village joined the party. A function was also organized to welcome them into the party fold. Welcoming the new entrants, Saroori said their joining the party would further strengthen the Congress party and said "It is high time to further spread message of the party in every village and hamlet of Jammu and Kashmir particularly erstwhile district Doda," he said and asserted that policies and programmes of the party were formulated by incorporating wishes of every section of the society.

Earlier, in connection with the long pending demand of the people of village Bazdevna, Heya, Gangna, Kandna, Jafeena, Bungam, Dorigam, Prawara, Gunderna and Therna areas an extension counter of ration depot was sanctioned at village Bazdevna which was inaugurated by MLA Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori. He expressed that his priority is to deliver the goods to his voters at their door steps. He further assured the people of Tagood that black topping will be done during this year.

Mr. Saroori also inaugurated the 1 km long road from Bungam Tagood to sub-centre Tagood which was the long pending demand of the area. He further has disclosed that during ongoing budget Session of Assembly his priority will be to highlight the burning issues of far flung, backward and hilly regions those are being ignored by present PDP – BJP State Government.

Road connectivity to hilly, rural areas prime requirement for their growth and development: G. M Saroori

Inspected Thathri-Kathava road; Conducted extensive tour of Phagsoo Thathri

THATHRI, JANUARY 06 - Senior Congress lawmaker from Inderwal, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, who is on an extensive visit of the Inderwal constituency, on his first day visited Thathri, Phagsoo, Khanpura areas and addressed series of public meetings.

While inspecting the ongoing Thathri-Kathava road constructed by PMGSY department at a cost of Rs. 22.56 crores, Mr. Saroori said that road connectivity to hilly, far flung and rural areas are the prime requirement for their growth and development. He said most of the population living in hilly areas of the Inderwal constituency has been connected with road connectivity and the work on various road projects is going on at pace. He said road connectivity acts as an indicator of development and help in both social and economic upliftment of the people.

Mr. Saroori said that peace and prosperity enables to focus on the developmental activities and carry on the infrastructure developmental projects in a time bound manner and added that he as a MLA has taken each and every step to maintain peace and tranquillity besides carried forward the developmental activities smoothly across the Inderwal irrespective of caste, color, region or religion.

While inspecting Rs 22.56 crores Thathri-Kathava road constructed by PMGSY department, Saroori passed on spot instructions to the concerned executing agencies to expedite the pace of work and ensure qualitative works on ground. He further sorted out the road dispute and directed the agency to ensure road to connect Bandoga, Khanpora, Kathava villages so that problems of this far flung areas could be mitigated. He enjoined upon the officers to make every effort so that benefit of various schemes reaches down to the targeted population.

People also raised their burning demands on the occasion which include, pending payment of wages under MGNREGA, IHHL schemes, improvement in Drinking water distribution system, augmentation of power distribution system and other demands were also raised by the people on the occasion. Mr. Saroori assured the people that their genuine demands will be taken up with the concerned department for early redressal.

On the present dispensation (PDP and BJP), Saroori said they have completely failed for proper policies, planning keeping in view the basic ground realities and regretted that the present regime has derailed the whole process of peace and development. “Prevailing chaos and instability is outcome of the wrong policies of the present regime”, he said but asserted that Congress would continue to work for peace, stability and development process on right track.

Later Mr. Saroori also inspected the construction work of “Development of Eidgah” under Constituency Development Funds (CDF) at Thathri. He also addressed workers meetings and expressed serious concern over the problems confronting people. Developmental works have come to standstill, roads are in dilapidated conditions, people are suffering in absence of ration, non availability electricity and rising unemployment have added miseries to the people, he said. Saroori said Congress party has always been committed for equitable development of the regions and never indulged in any kind of discrimination. We want that every region and section of the State to develop and proper equally, he (Saroori) reiterated Congress Party’s resolve to serve and strengthen people. Reiterating Congress Party’s resolve to fight against discrimination against any region, Saroori urged the Party workers to remain steadfast in service of the people, for the fact, Congress Party is an instrument of service and it (Congress) would continue to serve them (people) to the best of it’s ability.

Prominent among those senior officers of PMGSY, PHE, RDD and local Congress leaders accompanied the MLA Inderwal during the tour.

Only Congress can ensure peace and better development in the state: Sharik Saroori

5 dozens of BJP workers from Kandoth joined Congress

Conducted extensive tour of Kandoth Thathri

KANDOTH, JANUARY 04: - Only Congress can ensure peace and better development in the state which is the agenda of our party. This was said by Youth Congress Leader, Sharik Ahmed Saroori during his extensive tour of Kandoth area.

Referring to the present government Sharik Saroori while addressing the public meetings at Zelu, Indralla, Chariya, Upper Sharote, Haneja, Renka areas of Kandoth Thathri, said that both Centre and State governments haves failed to fulfill even a single commitment with the people and brought miseries for the common man due to their wrong policies. The achievement of government is that the divisive forces have succeeded in vitiating the atmosphere of peace and harmony in the Country. There is hue and cry everywhere and nobody feels secure in the present regime.

Prominent among those President Block Congress Committee Thathri, Asgar Hussain Khangi, President BC SC cell Thathri, O. P Bhagat, Senior Congress leaders including Mushtaq Ahmed Hajam, Kashmiri Singh, Aashiq Hussain, Akhil, Surat Ram, Sanjeev Kumar, Krishan Lal, Chaman and others were present on the occasion.

On the occasion, five dozens of BJP workers joined Congress party which was welcomed by Sharik Saroori and other senior leaders of the party and hope those who joined the party today will work hard for strengthening the party at grass root level in whole Kandoth area. He said that more people want to join congress party under the dynamic leadership of Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji, Rahul Gandhi Ji, Ghulam Nabi Azad sahab, and Ghulam Mohammad Saroori sahab.

Sharik Saroori said that the failure of the government is required to be highlighted amongst the public for their anti-poor and anti farmers and assured new comers that a state of fair deal and justice will prevail only under Congress regime. He also stated that BJP stands exposed for their mis governance, wrong policies and mass Corruptions by their leaders.

He further said that power hungry forces in the state (PDP & BJP) have joined hands for the sake of power leaving aside all important commitments with the people of the state. He said that both the coalition partners have failed on all fronts and betrayed their electorate as a result the people of each and every section of the society are suffering and disappointed. He said both Centre and State government make certain issues to divert the attention of general public from their failures but people are not fool, they will teach them lesson at the appropriate time.

While speaking on the occasion, Congress leaders Asgar Hussain Khangi, O. P Bhagat and others said Jammu & Kashmir is a symbol of communal harmony and politicians of all shades in the state especially (PDP-BJP) must not play politics of religion and region and work towards peace and harmony in the state. He said nobody should divide the people on regional, religious or communal lines. The PDP and BJP have suffered a major jolt with parting way by large number of its workers and joining the Congress party.

They said that people of Jammu and Kashmir have very bad experience of coalitions and now they realize the need of political stability that can steer out Jammu and Kashmir from the prevailing morass. They said that Congress has rich and vast history of serving the nation and it has taken several revolutionary steps for the welfare of the people for kandoth including sanctioning of HSS Kandoth, 20 kms road length for Kandoth, Chariya, blacktopping on Kandoth, Aganwari in every panchayats and other schemes which present government failed to carry forward the welfare scheme launched by the Congress for the general public.

The newly joined workers attributed the reason of joining into the Congress party, said that they are impressed with the working and secular approach of Congress party which is progressing very fast under the dynamic leadership of Mrs. Sonia Gandhi ji, our Young leader Rahul Gandhi Ji, Ghulam Nabi Azad sahib, Ghulam Mohammad Saroori sahib and others. They said that in the present time it is only the Congress party which can lead the country to the prosperity and development.

Later the Congress leaders also visited the residence of all those who passed away recently in Chariya village to express solidarity with the bereaved families. They extended heartfelt condolence and said the party stood with them and their family in solidarity in their moment of inconsolable loss. They also prayed for peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss.