Parra calls for scrapping J&K Media Policy

Jammu, Mar 19: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rahman Parra on Wednesday strongly advocated for the scrapping of the media policy in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a tool to suppress free speech in the erstwhile state.
Speaking during the discussion on grants in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Parra criticized the government for imposing what he termed as “censorship and communication blockade” following the downgrading of the state to a Union Territory.
Parra said that the media policy was an attempt to “shoot the messenger and muzzle people’s voices.”
He highlighted the increased surveillance and control over the press, stating, “There is a police station inside the press colony of Srinagar. This is thought policing. It is time to stand with the independent media of Jammu and Kashmir.”
The PDP leader claimed that the press became the “first casualty” after the abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent reorganization of the state. He called for the immediate revocation of the media policy, arguing that it undermines the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
Parra also raised concerns over the allocation of funds for industrial development in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that out of the Rs 20,000 crore allocated for industrial estates over the past five years, 80% had been given to outsiders, leaving little for local entrepreneurs. “The J&K government has no industrial policy,” he said, urging the administration to prioritize the interests of local businesses.
On the issue of land laws, Parra expressed fear and insecurity among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He called for a revision of the land laws, stating, “We are not here to justify the actions of the past five years.”
The PDP leader further highlighted discrepancies in the implementation of the housing scheme, particularly the allocation of land based on the 2018 survey. He criticized the commodification of water resources and opposed the privatization of electricity, calling for a one-time rehabilitation plan for affected communities. Parra demanded a transfer policy for Kashmiri Pandits appointed under the Prime Minister’s Package, ensuring their safety and convenience. He urged the government to expedite compassionate appointments for families of deceased government employees. Furthermore, Parra questioned why J&K police personnel were not receiving hardship allowances similar to those given to central paramilitary forces and demanded the removal of such anomalies. (KNO)