SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved the release of the remaining Rs 41.16 lakh for the completion of an LPG distributorship sanctioned to Insha Mushtaq, who lost her eyesight due to pellet injuries sustained during the 2016 unrest in Kashmir. The announcement was made by Jammu and Kashmir Minister Satish Sharma.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the minister described the development as a case of justice being “delayed but not denied.” The LPG distributorship had been initially sanctioned to Mushtaq in 2018, but it remained incomplete over the subsequent years. The minister highlighted that Insha Mushtaq lost her eyesight to pellets in 2016, and her distributorship, though sanctioned in 2018, had been left unfinished.
Under the administration, approval has now been granted for the disbursement of the balance amount of Rs 41.16 lakh, a move intended to bring the matter to its logical conclusion. Mushtaq, a resident of the Sedow area in Shopian district of South Kashmir, sustained pellet injuries during the widespread unrest that followed the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in July 2016, leading to her complete loss of vision.
Despite her injuries, Mushtaq continued her educational pursuits and achieved a significant academic milestone by clearing the Class 12 board examination in 2023. She secured 319 marks out of a possible 500 in the examinations, demonstrating resilience and determination in overcoming her challenges. The approval of the funds is expected to facilitate the final establishment and operationalization of her LPG distributorship, providing her with an economic avenue.
The incident of pellet-induced injuries during the 2016 unrest in Kashmir has been a recurring issue, drawing considerable attention and concern regarding the use of such crowd-control measures. Numerous individuals sustained injuries, with a significant number, like Mushtaq, suffering vision impairment. The government’s decision to support her through the establishment of a distributorship is seen as an effort to provide rehabilitation and economic support to victims affected by the events of that period.
The process of establishing such distributorships often involves multiple stages, including land acquisition, infrastructure development, and regulatory approvals. The delay in the completion of Mushtaq’s distributorship had become a point of concern, prompting the minister’s intervention. The release of the remaining funds is anticipated to expedite the remaining processes, allowing the distributorship to commence operations.
Insha Mushtaq’s case highlights the long-term consequences faced by individuals affected by conflict-related incidents and the importance of sustained support mechanisms. Her academic achievements despite her visual impairment have been widely recognized, and the finalization of her business venture is expected to further empower her. The action by the government signifies a commitment to addressing the needs of victims and facilitating their reintegration into productive economic activities.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
