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| SJAC demands opening of Sawalkakote tender on July 9; seeks clarity on compensation, employment and Ramban's stake in project | | | Early Times Report
RAMBAN, July 5: The Sawalkakote Joint Action Committee (SJAC) today held a press conference at Ramban under the leadership of its President Advocate Fairoz Khan and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests of the people of Ramban in the proposed Sawalkakote Hydroelectric Project.
Addressing the media, Advocate Fairoz Khan stated that the people of Ramban have been patiently awaiting clarity regarding the future of the project, but repeated delays and uncertainty have created serious concerns among the affected population. He emphasized that the bid opening process, presently scheduled for July 9, 2026, must be conducted without any further postponement and that the government should clearly announce a definite timeline for execution of the project.
The press conference was also addressed by Sheetal Singh Bali, Er. Surjeet Singh, Sanjay Kumar, Abdul Rahim Bali, Shoab Khan, and other members of the Joint Action Committee, who expressed concern over the prolonged uncertainty surrounding issues of submergence, compensation, rehabilitation, employment, and infrastructure development.
The Committee reiterated that Ramban cannot be reduced merely to a reservoir zone while bearing the environmental and social burden of the project. SJAC noted that reports indicating that nearly 88% of the projected submergence area falls within Ramban district make it imperative that the district receives its rightful share in project benefits, employment opportunities, and developmental infrastructure.
The Committee once again sought official clarification regarding the proposed road connectivity and diversion plans associated with the project. Members stated that conflicting reports and public statements have created confusion among residents and affected families regarding Ramban's future role in the project.
SJAC further highlighted the plight of landowners whose lands were acquired years ago but either remain unused or whose compensation issues remain unresolved. The Committee demanded that all compensation be paid strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, and that cases of unused acquired land be reviewed in accordance with law.
The Committee also emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement policy for all affected families and demanded guaranteed preference for local youth in project-related employment. Members stated that the project must generate tangible economic benefits for the people who are making sacrifices for its implementation.
Speaking on the occasion, SJAC leaders stated that the people of Ramban fully support development and nation-building projects but cannot accept a situation where local communities suffer displacement, loss of livelihood, and environmental impacts without adequate safeguards and benefits.
The Committee placed the following demands before the Government and concerned authorities:
Opening of the Sawalkakote tender bids on July 9, 2026, without any further delay.
Announcement of a clear and time-bound project execution schedule.
Official clarification regarding road connectivity and diversion plans.
Fair compensation strictly in accordance with the Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
Review of cases involving unused acquired land and appropriate legal relief.
Comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement package for affected families.
First preference in employment and contractual opportunities for local residents.
Protection of environmental and social interests of the affected areas.
Wage security and livelihood protection for affected families.
The SJAC urged the administration and project authorities to address these concerns with transparency and seriousness, stating that the aspirations and rights of the people of Ramban must remain central to every decision concerning the Sawalkakote Project. |
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