Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma recently conducted an extensive tour of the Kalakote-Sunderbani area, engaging with local residents and assessing developmental progress. The tour included visits to Sunderbani, Siot, Khui Dheri, Lamberi, and Patrada, where Sharma addressed public gatherings and listened to concerns raised by the community.
During these meetings, Sharma openly criticized the National Conference (NC), accusing the party of deliberately obstructing and delaying crucial developmental projects in the Kalakote-Sunderbani region. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Sharma highlighted that numerous projects have experienced significant delays, with some failing to commence even after the tendering process was completed. These delays, according to Sharma, are hindering the overall progress and well-being of the area’s residents.
The MP’s visit also included a stop in Lamberi, where he sought the blessings of Swami Vishwatma Nand Saraswati. Furthermore, Sharma, along with local MLA Thakur Randhir Singh, inaugurated the Ayushman Arogya Mandir at Mawa Patrada, a project funded through the MPLADS fund. The Ayushman Arogya Mandir is expected to improve healthcare access for the residents of Mawa Patrada and surrounding areas, providing essential medical services and promoting well-being. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in the region.
Thakur Randhir Singh, the MLA for Kalakote-Sunderbani, lauded the efforts of the Modi-led Government in upgrading the Jammu-Poonch National Highway. Singh emphasized that this infrastructure upgrade would significantly improve connectivity and transportation in the region, facilitating economic growth and development. He noted that the improved highway would reduce travel time, enhance trade and commerce, and provide better access to essential services for the residents of Jammu and Poonch.
Several local officials and community leaders were present during the MP’s tour and public meetings. These included ADC Sunderbani Ramesh Sharma, CMO Dr. Manohar Lal, BMO Meena Sharma, District president Preetam Sharma, Seh Prabhari Omi Khajuria, general secretary Vikram Sharma, Mandal presidents Sukhdev and Vikas, and senior BJP leaders Balkrishan, Ramesh, Naseeb Singh. Additionally, Ex BDC Balkrishan, Ex Sarpanch Naresh Singh, Yash Pal, Ashok Chib, Vijay Kumar, Bodh Raj, Gian Chand, Abhinav Prashar, Bhushan Uppal, and Madan Pal were also in attendance, reflecting the widespread interest in the developmental issues facing the Kalakote-Sunderbani area.
The accusations leveled by MP Jugal Kishore Sharma against the NC highlight the ongoing political tensions surrounding developmental projects in the region. Sharma’s statements suggest a deep-seated concern over the perceived obstruction of progress, while the NC has yet to issue a formal response addressing these allegations. The residents of Kalakote-Sunderbani remain hopeful that the developmental projects will be expedited to improve their quality of life and promote economic opportunities. The focus remains on ensuring that the projects are completed efficiently and transparently, delivering tangible benefits to the community.
The inauguration of the Ayushman Arogya Mandir signifies a step forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility in the area, but larger infrastructural projects are vital for sustained progress. The improved Jammu-Poonch National Highway, as highlighted by MLA Thakur Randhir Singh, offers vital connectivity improvements which are crucial for the Kalakote-Sunderbani region’s economic advancement. The collaboration between political figures and local officials underscores the complexity of regional development initiatives and the necessity for cohesive efforts to surmount obstacles and realize long-term community benefits.
The ongoing discussions and debates surrounding developmental projects in Kalakote-Sunderbani reflect the broader challenges faced by many regions in Jammu and Kashmir. Balancing political considerations with the needs of the local population is a delicate task, requiring transparency, accountability, and a commitment to inclusive growth. As the region moves forward, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of the residents and ensure that developmental efforts are aligned with their aspirations for a better future. The voices of the community must be heard, and their concerns must be addressed in a timely and effective manner.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.