JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) Working President Raman Bhalla on Thursday demanded immediate rehabilitation and resettlement of traders affected by the demolition of shops at Satwari Chowk, while accusing BJP legislators of failing to effectively take up the issue with the authorities.
Bhalla visited the demolition site and interacted with affected shopkeepers, expressing solidarity with traders whose establishments were recently demolished by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).
According to a statement issued by the Congress leader, around 20 shops were demolished as part of an official drive. Bhalla alleged that the affected traders had been operating their businesses at the site for nearly five decades and should not have been displaced without a proper rehabilitation plan.
He said the shopkeepers had long been seeking a rehabilitation package and claimed that many of them had regularly paid rent to the municipal authorities.
While stressing that infrastructure and road development projects are necessary, Bhalla said authorities should ensure suitable alternative arrangements before removing commercial establishments that serve as the primary source of livelihood for families.
The Congress leader also questioned the manner in which the demolition was carried out, citing allegations by shopkeepers that they had not been given adequate notice before the action.
Bhalla criticised BJP legislators representing the area, alleging that they failed to intervene despite the rehabilitation issue remaining unresolved for a considerable period.
Referring to a rehabilitation and resettlement scheme reportedly approved for traders and kiosk owners affected by road widening in the Nai Basti–Satwari Chowk area, he urged authorities to implement the policy in a transparent and time-bound manner.
He also referred to assurances reportedly given by JMC officials regarding relocation of the affected traders and said rehabilitation should be backed by a written and credible plan.
Bhalla demanded that the administration identify a suitable alternative site, involve affected traders in the rehabilitation process and expedite resettlement measures. He said the Congress party would continue to raise the issue until the concerns of the affected shopkeepers are addressed.
The Congress leader urged the Jammu Municipal Corporation and the Union Territory administration to engage with the displaced traders, assess their situation and ensure timely rehabilitation while balancing development needs with the protection of livelihoods.
