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Srinagar, The National Conference (NC) has voiced its opposition to the recent decision by the administration to form district-level committees tasked with identifying land for new five-star hotels in Jammu and Kashmir. The party warns that such moves, made without a democratically elected government, could be premature and potentially detrimental.
According to Kashmir Media Service, NC spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar, speaking in Srinagar, expressed concerns over the underlying intentions of the district-level committees’ formation. He suggested that the initiative, which could involve allocating forest and private lands for development, might not align with the ecological and social interests of the region’s residents.
Dar highlighted the absence of a popular government since August 5, 2019, and noted that the Indian Supreme Court has mandated elections in the region by September of this year. He cautioned private companies and individuals against engaging with the hotel projects until a democratically elected government is in place. Dar assured that any decisions conflicting with the ecological preservation and public welfare would be subject to review under a future elected administration.
The controversy stems from a recent order by the local administration sanctioning the creation of committees to pinpoint lands suitable for luxury hotels, indicating potential encroachments on natural and privately owned areas.