Srinagar, Sep 20: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday raised concerns over what he described as the continued developmental neglect of Srinagar and demanded an inquiry into alleged changes to the city’s Master Plan.
Addressing a public meeting at Chinar Colony, Parray Pora, in the Chanapora constituency, Bukhari said the city, particularly downtown areas, had suffered from prolonged developmental and livelihood challenges.
He alleged that changes to the Srinagar Master Plan had affected the city’s character, with areas originally designated for commercial use being converted to residential zones and vice versa. He also alleged that commercial buildings had been allowed in residential colonies.
Bukhari demanded a probe into who altered the Master Plan, at whose behest and for what purpose.
He also alleged that attempts were being made to settle outsiders in Kashmir “under the garb of development”, claiming that some local individuals were allegedly facilitating land purchases on behalf of outsiders. He called for an inquiry into the allegations.
On Jammu and Kashmir’s political situation, Bukhari reiterated his appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate dialogue with the people, particularly youth, and address their grievances. He also sought constitutional guarantees for protection of domicile laws.
He said young people facing police verification issues over past cases should be given an opportunity to move forward and lead peaceful and dignified lives.
Bukhari also criticised the government over what he described as failures to address public issues, including unemployment, drinking water, housing, drainage and parking in Srinagar.
He said the lack of livelihood opportunities was a major concern for youth and questioned restrictions faced by street vendors. He also called for better housing and drainage infrastructure, saying even minor rainfall led to flood-like situations in parts of the city.
On reservation, Bukhari criticised the existing policy and called for a system based on population proportions to ensure what he termed fair representation in employment opportunities.
He also raised concerns over the alleged political bias in the execution of road and lane macadamisation works in Chanapora and said playgrounds in the constituency had been left unattended.
Party vice president Mohammad Syed Akhoon accused the ruling National Conference of failing to fulfil promises made during the 2024 elections, while general secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were facing larger political and environmental challenges.
Provincial president Mohammad Ashraf Mir said the Apni Party would continue to raise public issues and work for the development and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.
