'Satelite townships will serve people of Kashmir': CM's Advisor

December 6, 2024 by News Desk

Amid growing local opposition to land acquisitions for developmental projects, including proposed satellite townships, the National Conference (NC) sought to reassure residents that their interests would remain central to any such initiatives.

Senior NC leader and Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Nasir Aslam Wani, addressed concerns during a press conference at the party’s Nawa-e-Subh headquarters, stating, “If any satellite township is established, it will be for the local people. There is no need to make an issue out of it. We are still dealing with the repercussions of the PDP’s past actions.”

The remarks come amidst public apprehension and allegations from the PDP that the projects aim to alter Kashmir’s demographic composition.

Responding to these accusations, Wani strongly dismissed any notion of demographic shifts, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of the local population.

NC Chief Spokesman Tanvir Sadiq announced that the party would release a formal response to address the PDP’s objections.

“Every decision we make will always be for the betterment of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Sadiq said, urging the public to avoid inflating the controversy.

Notably, NC’s Srinagar MP had earlier demanded a comprehensive social impact assessment for the proposed projects to address public concerns.

Locals have been opposing land takeovers for various developmental initiatives, citing fears of displacement and environmental degradation.