Panchayat elections will be held once weather improves in J-K: Lieutenant Governor

Jammu, Nov 16: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha Sunday said that Panchayat elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be held once weather conditions improve in the region.

Speaking at a gathering of farmers and devotees at Jhiri Mela ground in Jammu, the Lieutenant Governor stated that Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir should have been happened early, but due to some constitutional issues the polls couldn’t happen.

“There was no reservation system for OBC category in Panchayati Raj system. The community members had approached government and sought review of the system. Accordingly the Parliament did few amendments into the Act,” Lieutenant Governor said.

He said earlier Lok Sabha elections followed by J&K Legislative polls were held in Jammu and Kashmir, and now the time has come to hold Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

“The Panchayat elections will be held in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir once weather conditions improve in the region, so that 33,000 elected Panchayat members will contribute in the development of J&K,” he added.

Prior to the address, the Lieutenant Governor visited the Jhiri Mela and paid obeisance to Baba Jitto at his Samadhi in Jhiri village. He said the sacrifice of Baba Jitto continues to inspire the society to work together a stronger nation.

Highlighting the deep spiritual and cultural significance of Jhiri Mela, the Lieutenant Governor said the annual event reminds us about the sacrifices of our farming families and their vital role in serving and nurturing humanity.

“Jhiri Mela symbolizes cultural unity of India and the tradition tied in the thread of social values provides an opportunity to the people to learn about our heritage, culture, art and craft,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor shared the resolve of the government, under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to transform the agriculture sector.

“Empowering farmers of the Union Territory of J&K is my mission and we have taken strategic steps to accelerate transformation in agriculture & allied sectors. We will ensure our youth in rural areas get equal opportunities to shine,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also reiterated his commitment to protect the rights of displaced families of POJK, West Pakistan Refugees, tribals, Valmikis and other deprived sections.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated progressive farmers, and officials engaged in the conduct of Jhiri Mela.  He also visited the stalls put up by the government departments, Agri-entrepreneurs and farmers. The event also featured impressive performances by the artists showcasing the rich art and culture of the region.

Bharat Bhushan, Chairman, DDC Jammu; Anand Jain, ADGP, Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Surinder Kumar, Member of Legislative Assembly from Marh; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, senior officials, and people from all walks of life were present.