DCC Jammu Urban intensifies protest stands in solidarity with Jammu people

People of J&K fed-up of series of lies and false promises made by BJP: Bhalla

JAMMU: The District Congress Committee (DCC) Jammu Urban today intensified the ongoing protest at Janipur Wards No. 34 and 35 in the Jammu North Assembly segment. The protest was organized under the chairmanship of Surinder Kumar, Congress leader, to highlight the ongoing issues faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, including the toll plaza, smart meter installation, and property tax imposition, which have significantly impacted their daily lives.

The protest witnessed a robust turnout, with prominent leaders and members of the community coming together to voice their concerns. The event was notably attended by Raman Bhalla, Working President JKPCC, Mula Ram, former Minister, Yogesh Sawhney, former Minister, Uday Bhanu Chib, Youth Congress National General Secretary, Hari Singh Chib, President DCC Jammu Rural, Block Presidents H.S Baghi, Som Nath Sharma, Parshotam Singh, and Members of DCC Jammu Urban and Rural.

In addressing the media, Raman Bhalla, former minister criticized the BJP-led government at the Centre for its “hollow policies” that have resulted in the increased sufferings of the people. He accused the BJP of diverting public attention from its failures by raising emotional and residual issues.  He said that the people of J&K are fed-up of series of lies and false promises made by the BJP leadership in the Union Territory. He criticized the government’s decision to allow the continued operation of the toll plaza at Sarore, despite the large scale agitation initiated by the people of Jammu region.

Bhalla asserted that the people of the country are struggling with rising inflation and the youths are finding it difficult to get jobs. “Inflation has affected people at all levels. Even a cup of tea is now beyond the reach of the common citizens. The Centre has not taken any firm steps to control skyrocketing prices,” he added.

Mula Ram, leading the protest against smart electricity meters and inflated power bills, stated that the BJP has nothing to offer to the people and has failed to address the core issues. He criticized the government for its apparent lack of concern in resolving these crucial matters. He slammed the present administration for its perceived shortcomings in meeting the expectations and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the installation of Smart Meters stands as a stark example of a decision that contradicts the sentiments and preferences of the general public.

Yogesh Sawhney shed light on the plight of the people in the Jammu region who are burdened with multiple taxes due to the government’s failure to address their pressing issues. He specifically called for an end to the harassment faced by the public through property tax imposition.

Uday Chib criticized the government for its failure to address employment in the country, stating that the youth in Jammu and Kashmir are severely affected by the lack of opportunities. Issuing a stern warning to the BJP leadership, Uday Chib cautioned against testing the patience of the general public, especially as the approaching 2024 polls draw nearer. He asserted that the public’s sentiment cannot be taken for granted, and indicated that the upcoming polls would serve as an opportunity for the people to express their dissatisfaction.

Hari Singh Chib said that the people of the country have made a big mistake by voting to power the BJP and the need of the time is to root it out as soon as possible and install Congress Government to ensure good governance in the country. He said that BJP cannot offer anything except big hollow promises like bringing back black money, eradicating corruption, teaching a lesson to China and Pakistan, etc. He warned the government that if the decisions regarding smart prepaid meters, property tax, and the toll plaza are not reconsidered, the people of the Jammu region will take to the streets in protest.