Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Aug 21: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday visited the Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) at Lassipora, Pulwama, where he reviewed the functioning of the estate and interacted with stakeholders.
Speaking to reporters after the visit, Choudhary, said that a number of pressing issues had been brought into his notice and assured that the Omar Abdullah-led government was committed to resolving them on priority.
Choudhary said that the Managing Director of SIDCO has been directed to prepare a detailed report of the requirements and pending works at the industrial estate so that necessary interventions could be planned. “There is no doubt that there are genuine issues here. Road widening, electricity supply and other infrastructural concerns will be taken up seriously. The road connecting this estate will be recommended to the Union Government for widening as smooth connectivity is vital for industrial growth,” he said.
The Deputy CM stressed that the government stands by its commitments made to the people. “Whatever promises the National Conference made during elections will be fulfilled. But people must understand that it will take some time. We are determined to work for the welfare of industry and the common people alike,” he said.
While acknowledging public concerns, Choudhary added that the development process in Jammu and Kashmir had slowed down after the abrogation of statehood. “The way work for the people of J&K should have been happening is not happening and it will continue this way until J&K regains its statehood,” he said.
Targeting BJP, the Deputy CM compared the recent Reorganisation Amendment Bill to the entry of the East India Company in India. “The East India Company came and ruled India for 200 years. BJP is trying to replicate the same tactics. Their move to empower themselves to send ministers to jail for 30 days and topple governments is deeply undemocratic,” he said.
Highlighting the sacrifices made by thousands of people for safeguarding democracy in the region, Choudhary expressed confidence that these sacrifices would not go in vain. “The people of J&K have struggled and sacrificed for democracy. I am hopeful that democracy will be safeguarded here and not undermined by undemocratic practices,” he added.
Choudhary also directed the Pollution Control Department to take strict action against industrial unit holders, who are violating environmental norms. He expressed concern over reports of some unit holders discharging untreated water into the Ranbiara rivulet. “This practice must stop immediately. I have issued directions to officers to ensure strict compliance,” he said.
On illegal mining, Choudhary called for greater accountability and cooperation among the concerned authorities. “Police and district administrations have a role to play in curbing illegal mining. They must take this responsibility positively,” he said.
