Jammu: Expressing concern over the forcible eviction drives targeting traditional farmlands here, Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari said on Sunday that the government must remember these actions are a major source of distress for farmers.
He emphasised that farmers are the backbone of society and the driving force of the economy.
He said in many cases where the government acquired agricultural land, owners were not compensated according to the prevailing market value.
“At some places in R S Pora, farmers had possessory rights over the land and were therefore entitled to receive due compensation upon being dispossessed. Unfortunately, these farmers have yet to receive the compensation,” Bukhari said while addressing a workers’ convention at Kotli Shah Doula near here.
He said such injustice has only increased the hardships and suffering of farming communities.
Bukhari, however, said his party would effectively address farmers’ issues and concerns.
“Apni Party is committed to protecting the rights and interests of farmers, and we will stand firmly with the farming community at all times. We will knock on every door to ensure that the issues facing farmers are addressed effectively,” he said.
He appealed to the Union Government to take concrete measures to protect agricultural land, address farmers’ concerns, and safeguard their well-being at all costs.
“We in Jammu and Kashmir do not have a strong industrial base. Our land is our primary source of livelihood and economic security. We cannot afford to lose it, especially our agricultural land,” he said.
He called for the effective implementation of the Central Forest Act in Jammu and Kashmir to protect the rights of the concerned communities.
Taking a dig at the ruling National Conference’s proposed sit-in protest in Delhi supporting the restoration of statehood to J&K on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Bukhari said, “We suggested joint efforts to ensure that New Delhi restores J&K’s rights, including statehood, but the NC declined.”
“Let me tell you that they are not serious about these issues; rather, they are fooling the people. They will achieve nothing from their proposed visits to Delhi, except some political and economic mileage for themselves,” he said.
