Jammu: PDP legislator Waheed Para criticised the government paper presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s cabinet, claiming it ignores the core agenda of the ruling National Conference (NC) and contradicts the party’s promises to the people.
“What is included is included, but what’s missing is NC’s core agenda, which is in conflict with this paper. That’s why the BJP is praising it — they see it not as NC’s manifesto but as their own,” Para said during the Assembly session.
Meanwhile, a heated debate erupted in the House over Para’s demand to restore holidays on Martyrs’ Day (July 13) and the birth anniversary of NC founder Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah. He argued that July 13 symbolises Jammu and Kashmir’s fight for democratic rights, while Sheikh Abdullah’s birthday is a key part of the region’s historical legacy.
Beyond political concerns, Para also raised alarm over unchecked environmental destruction in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly due to large-scale mining. Speaking outside the Assembly, he claimed a “powerful mafia” was driving excessive soil, sand, and stone mining, damaging the ecologically fragile region.
“Development projects are causing large-scale destruction, and Jammu and Kashmir’s delicate ecology is already under strain. The dry winter has lowered the water table significantly,” he warned, questioning whether the government conducts proper environmental assessments before approving major projects like roads, railways, and tunnels.
Para also called for regulating pilgrim and tourist footfall in Kashmir to protect glaciers and ensure sustainable tourism. “The Yatra in Kashmir can only be sustained if there is water, ice, and glaciers,” he said, urging stricter ecological safeguards.
