Early Times Report
SRINAGAR, Apr 23: Even as the state government has decided to construct shelters for homeless poor, including outstation people, who earn livelihood in Jammu and Kashmir, the pro-Pakistan separatists have opposed the development even before the laying of foundation stone for the "philanthropic project."
This time, firebrand leader and Dukhtaran-e-Millat chief Aasiya Andrabi has taken lead by opposing the move. In a statement she yet again asked the separatist leaders and people of Kashmir to join hands against the "nefarious designs of India." "After majority community of the state population protested and foiled the Delhi's design to set up separate colonies for refugees, the rulers are exploring new ways to fulfill their agenda," Aasiya said in a statement.
"Muslim majority of Jammu Kashmir will never allow any such move that is actually aimed at changing the demography of this state," Aasiya said.
Sources said in the wake of her statement, carried by Srinagar-based dailies today, various separatist outfits including Hurriyat (G) and Hurriyat (M) held secret meetings to decide future course of action, which could include roadside protests.
Sources said the Pakistani handlers of the separatists want them start an agitation against the government plans. "Basically some elements don't want peace to prevail in Kashmir. They look for issues, which ultimately affect the business particularly tourism in Kashmir," said a senior official pleading anonymity.
The project to construct buildings to provide shelter for "homeless poor, including non-state-subjects", was finalized earlier his year, at a high level meeting chaired by Governor NN Vohra.
Officials said the project in the first phase was to be executed at the cost of Rs 2 crore and Rs 1.75 crore in Jammu and Kupwara districts respectively while subsequently it would be extended to other 22 districts.
The government plans to execute the project under the Government of India sponsored National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM), which aims at "providing shelter to people who are living either on the roadside or under flyovers."
Apart from free accommodation, the beneficiaries of this scheme will get food at subsidized rates while accommodation will be provided for men, women and families.
The government has constituted a six-member selection committee for finalization of this project, with Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department as its Chairman. Official sources said while four kanal land each has been identified in Jammu and Kupwara districts, a final nod was awaited from the Commissioner. |
