Kashmiri Hindus Decry Demolition of Shops in Jammu, Seek Immediate Compensation
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Kashmiri Hindus residing in the Muthi Phase-2 migrant camp in Jammu have expressed deep anguish after the Jammu Development Authority (JDA) demolished their shops earlier this week. The displaced community, which has relied on these shops for decades, is demanding immediate compensation and alternative arrangements.
The affected shopkeepers allege that the demolition was carried out without prior notice or adequate time to relocate their goods.
“These shops were our livelihood for 35 years. The JDA assured us they wouldn’t act without alternatives but bulldozed everything within minutes,” said Ashok Raina, a shop owner. “We are back on the streets, just like in 1990. No one from the government has come to address us.”
Anil Bhan, president of the camp, questioned the selective demolition. “Why target only our shops? They promise new shops in two months, but how will we survive until then? This is political apathy at its worst”.
In response, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) Arvind Karwani acknowledged the issue, stating that the shops were on JDA land. He assured that efforts are underway to rehabilitate the affected shopkeepers. “A tender has been floated to construct new shops for the camp. Those who owned shops since the 1990s will be given preference. The allotment will be done as soon as the construction is complete.”
Despite these assurances, the displaced Kashmiri Hindus remain skeptical and demand immediate relief. “We cannot wait for months. The government must provide us with temporary compensation or alternative arrangements right now,” urged a shopkeeper.
(With ANI inputs)