Srinagar: Several industrial associations across the Kashmir Valley have expressed concern over the recent notices issued by the Regional Director (Kashmir) of the J&K Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) to a number of industrial units for alleged non-compliance related to ‘Consent to Establish’ and ‘Consent to Operate’ requirements.
According to Syed Fazal Illahi, President of the Kashmir Small Scale Industrial Association (Baghi Ali Mardan Khan), the notices have been issued to a large number of enterprises within their industrial estate, creating apprehension among entrepreneurs.
“The tone of the notices is concerning, as units have been termed as operating without authorization without being given an opportunity to respond,” Illahi said. He added that such actions disregard basic procedural fairness and the right to be heard.
Illahi further noted that copies of these notices have reportedly been marked to the General Manager, District Industries Centre (DIC) Srinagar, with directions to initiate de-registration proceedings even before formal hearings have taken place. Similar reports have been received from other industrial estates across the Valley.
The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), the apex body representing the Valley’s industrial community, has also taken up the matter with authorities. FCIK President Shahid Kamili stated that the JKPCC appears to have acted on preliminary observations without completing due process.
Recognizing the industry’s concerns, an FCIK delegation led by Kamili met with Forest Minister Javed Ahmad Rana to discuss the issue. The delegation conveyed that the enforcement measures had caused anxiety among industrial units, particularly as the notices were issued without prior advisories or warnings.
The delegation further pointed out that some of the notices lacked accompanying inspection reports or supporting documentation, which they said limited the opportunity for units to clarify or contest the claims. FCIK maintained that such actions could negatively impact the government’s ongoing efforts to promote the MSME sector and improve the ease of doing business in Jammu and Kashmir.
In response, Minister Javed Ahmad Rana assured the delegation that no industrial unit would face adverse action without a fair hearing. He also agreed to convene a high-level meeting with FCIK representatives to review the matter and ensure a balanced resolution.
FCIK reaffirmed its commitment to environmental compliance and sustainable industrial growth while urging for transparent and consultative regulatory practices.
