Opposition Slams Land Lease Bill in J&K Assembly
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – A private member’s bill proposing amendments to land lease renewal provisions in Jammu and Kashmir has drawn sharp criticism from the Leader of the Opposition, Sunil Sharma. Sharma alleged that the National Conference-led government allowed the bill’s introduction without objection, suggesting it caters to “elite interests” rather than the public good.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Sharma expressed strong reservations over the legislative move, stating that the mandate granted by the electorate appeared to be leveraged for the benefit of a select few. He voiced concerns that the proposed legislation could facilitate the re-leasing of significant government land parcels at reduced rates, a practice he described as a continuation of a long-standing pattern.
“What message does this send to the common citizen?” Sharma questioned, highlighting his belief that the government should be safeguarding public assets and addressing the needs of marginalized communities instead of seemingly “patronising a select group of influential people.” He further termed the development as “deeply unfortunate” and a “betrayal of trust” to those who supported the ruling party.
The private member’s bill, which was earlier presented in the Legislative Assembly, seeks to allow the renewal of leases for existing occupants. This move is widely interpreted as an effort to counter the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 2022. These rules mandate that certain expired leases should be put up for auction at prevailing market rates, a provision that the new bill appears designed to circumvent for current leaseholders.
The controversy underscores ongoing debates within the region regarding land allocation and its impact on economic equity. Critics argue that such legislative maneuvers can perpetuate existing inequalities by favouring established entities over broader public interest or new economic ventures. The government has not yet issued a formal statement in response to the opposition’s allegations.
The Chenab Times News Desk