Ghulam Nabi Azad, the chairman of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), stirred the political pot in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday by declaring his intention to revive the controversial Roshni scheme if his party wins the upcoming elections.
Addressing a rally in R S Pura near Jammu, the former chief minister asserted that the scheme’s abolition had dealt a blow to the economic well-being of the people. He emphasized that the Roshni Act, which granted ownership rights to unauthorized occupants of state land upon payment, had benefited thousands and provided vital livelihoods.
Azad’s vow to reinstate Roshni comes despite its contentious history. The scheme, originally aimed at generating funds for power projects, faced criticism for irregularities and allegations of misuse. Its eventual repeal in 2018 and subsequent retrieval of over 10 lakh kanals of land by the union territory administration fueled further controversy.
However, Azad remains undeterred. He argues that the scheme’s benefits outweighed its shortcomings and that its restoration would be crucial for economic recovery. He envisions a comprehensive plan for Jammu and Kashmir, with Roshni restoration at its core.
Beyond Roshni, Azad also pledged to address other pressing issues like border security concerns in areas like R S Pura, which have borne the brunt of cross-border shelling. He promised special schemes to alleviate the suffering of these communities and boost their socio-economic development.
Furthermore, Azad vowed to tackle the rampant drug addiction among young people and create employment opportunities for the unemployed. These promises, along with the Roshni revival pledge, aim to establish him as a champion of the people’s concerns and a potential solution to the state’s multifaceted challenges.
