Mufti urges Omar to rethink fertile land allotment for BSF camp in Pulwama
PDP chief opposes use of agricultural land for security camp in south Kashmir
Srinagar, Dec 18: Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday urged Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to reconsider the allotment of what she described as fertile agricultural land for establishing a Border Security Force camp in Pulwama district, cautioning that the move could adversely affect the livelihoods of local residents.
Speaking to reporters after visiting Pochal village in Pulwama, the former chief minister said the land identified for the proposed camp lies in the heart of a populated village and is agriculturally productive. She stressed that such land forms the economic backbone of many rural families and should not be diverted for nonagricultural purposes.
“This land is fertile and located in the middle of the village. Many families depend on it for their livelihood. It should not be handed over for a security camp,” Mufti said, adding that alternative options should be explored. She was accompanied during the visit by PDP MLA from Pulwama, Waheed Para.
Mufti appealed directly to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene in the matter and safeguard the interests of the affected villagers. While acknowledging the importance of security requirements, she said these should be balanced with the rights and concerns of local communities. “The BSF can be provided infertile or unused land. There is no justification for taking away productive agricultural land,” she remarked.
The PDP chief also said she intends to raise the issue with the Union Defence Minister, seeking a review of the decision and urging authorities to consider locations that would not disrupt civilian life or agricultural activity.
Referring to recent legislative developments, Mufti recalled that the PDP had introduced a Bill in the Assembly aimed at protecting land rights, particularly agricultural and residential land. She alleged that the Bill was dismissed by the government and labelled as legislation favouring land grabbers. “That Bill was meant to protect people’s land, but it was misrepresented,” she said.
Mufti further claimed that since the rejection of the PDP’s land protection Bill, there has been a noticeable increase in demolition drives, creating a sense of fear and insecurity among residents. “People feel vulnerable. There is growing anxiety that their land and homes can be taken away without adequate safeguards,” she alleged.
