Budgam, Aug01: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Saturday visited village Kanidajan in the Charar-i-Sharief Constituency, where he held a public outreach camp to listen to the grievances of the people, review the developmental needs of the area and assess the overall progress of various public welfare initiatives.
During the public interaction, the people apprised the Speaker of several issues concerning the area and projected their developmental aspirations while expressing appreciation for his continued outreach and accessibility.
A major concern raised by the villagers pertained to the alleged harassment caused by issuance of eviction notices by the Forest Department and the reported obstruction of agricultural activities on lands which, they said, have been under their possession and cultivation for generations.
The residents informed the Speaker that a large number of families are solely dependent on the produce from these lands for their livelihood and urged the government to safeguard their legitimate rights.
Addressing the gathering, the Speaker categorically stated that no one would be allowed to act in violation of the provisions of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. He asserted that the rights of all eligible beneficiaries under the Act would be protected in letter and spirit adding that no undue harassment of villagers would be tolerated.
The Speaker said that officers and officials of the Forest Department are expected to be fully conversant with the provisions of the law and must discharge their responsibilities in strict conformity with the legal framework.
He said that the government has recently issued comprehensive guidelines clearly explaining implementation of the relevant provisions of the Forest Rights Act. He cautioned that no individual should attempt to misuse the Act as a pretext for fresh encroachments on forest land or government property, emphasizing that the law must be implemented fairly and transparently while safeguarding the rights of genuine beneficiaries.
The villagers also highlighted several long-pending developmental requirements, including improvement of road connectivity, augmentation of drinking water supply, strengthening of electricity infrastructure, upgradation of the local High School to Higher Secondary level, enhancement of healthcare facilities and establishment of veterinary centres in the area.
Responding to the demands, the Speaker assured the gathering that the government remains fully committed to the welfare and inclusive development of the people.
He said that all genuine issues projected by the residents would be taken up with the concerned departments and addressed in a phased and time-bound manner.
