PDP delegation supports peaceful protest against ‘illegal sand eviction, encroachment of playfield’

Srinagar, Nov 7: A delegation of the Jammu & Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP), headed by Party Spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Tramboo, visited Badiwuder Sangam Eidgah to participate in a peaceful protest held by locals against the alleged illegal sand eviction and encroachment on Kachraie land by the Wildlife Department, said a press release.

The land has traditionally been used by locals for cattle grazing and by youth as a playground, it said

Iqbal Tramboo was accompanied by former VC Handicrafts and PDP Coordinator Srinagar Dr Ali Mohammad Wani, senior leader and former Secretary Arif Laigaroo, Manzoor Ahmad, Ghulam Hassan Bhat (Gooripora), Abdul Hameed Dar, Rouf Ahmad, and Bashir Ahmad Dar. During the visit, Iqbal Tramboo strongly criticised the National Conference (NC) government "for rejecting the Land Bill (Anti-Bulldozer Bill) in the recent assembly session." He said the bill was meant to provide relief to poor and landless families but added that it "was unfortunately turned down by the CM Omar Abdullah–led NC government."

“The rejection of this bill is a direct blow to poor and landless people who were supposed to be protected under this legislation. It exposes the anti-people policies of the NC,” Tramboo said.

Dr Ali Mohammad Wani expressed deep concern over the government’s silence on the issue and said, “Encroachment on community land and eviction of locals from traditional grazing and playground areas reflects administrative high-handedness. The government must immediately stop such actions and restore the land to the rightful users.”

As  per the statemnet, Arif Laigaroo reiterated PDP’s commitment to stand with the people and safeguard their rights, stating, “Our party will always be the voice of the voiceless. Such injustices not only affect livelihoods but also demoralize our youth who use this land for sports and recreation. The authorities must act before the situation escalates.” The PDP delegation assured the protesting locals that the issue would be taken up with the concerned authorities to safeguard the interests of the affected families and the youth, ensuring justice for the community.