 Early Times Report
JAMMU, May 10: Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, has welcomed the announcement of ceasefire between India and Pakistan, terming it a vital step toward de-escalation and relief for border residents who have been living under constant fear and suffering.
Responding to the statement by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, confirming the mutual agreement to halt firing and military operations from 5 PM today, Rattan Lal Gupta said, "This is a welcome step-though delayed. Had this ceasefire come just two days earlier, we could have avoided unnecessary bloodshed and loss of precious lives."
Highlighting the plight of border dwellers, the senior NC leader urged the Central Government to immediately announce a compensation of Rs 1 crore and a government job to the next of kin of each individual who lost their life in the recent cross-border firing incidents. "These families have made the ultimate sacrifice, and the government must support them with dignity and responsibility," he said.
He also strongly reiterated the demand that the Centre fulfill its long-standing commitment to provide 5-marla plots to border residents living within a 5-kilometer range of the International Border and Line of Control at safer locations. "This promise has remained unfulfilled for years. Not only must these plots be allotted now, but the government should also release funds for construction of houses under the PM Awas Yojana, so these families can live safely and securely," he added.
Praising the consistent efforts of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Cabinet Ministers to promote peace and prioritize public welfare, Rattan Lal Gupta said that now the focus must shift from conflict to compassion. "It is imperative that relief efforts begin without delay and confidence is restored among the people living in border belts," he added. |
