Mining jobs must go to J&K locals, says jailed MP Rashid in LS

Srinagar, Dec 05: Raising concerns over local employment in Jammu and Kashmir, MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh on Friday urged the central government to ensure mining jobs are given to local residents.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the Baramulla MP said thousands of truck drivers, tractor operators, and other labourers in the region were losing work opportunities as mining companies increasingly outsourced labour from outside Jammu and Kashmir.

“The mining sector has long been a crucial source of income for people living along river belts and quarry sites. But sadly, local workers are being sidelined and jobs are being outsourced from other regions,” Rashid said.

He added that the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir had distanced itself, saying the matter fell under the Lieutenant Governor’s administration. “If it is not in their hands, I request the central government to intervene,” he said.

Rashid highlighted that government jobs in the union territory were scarce and the mining sector remained one of the few avenues for employment.

He appealed to the Centre to prioritise local, educated but unemployed youth in hiring for mining operations.

“Livelihood of thousands depends on these rivers. Preference must be given to locals. Please, for God’s sake, convey this to the government,” he said. (KNS).