Zorawar flags NC’s ‘Blatant Bias’ as Jammu CAPEX Funds face lapse risk

STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: BJP J&K UT Spokesperson Zorawar Singh Jamwal on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Omar Abdullah-led Government, accusing it of deliberate bias against the Jammu region by withholding crucial development funds meant for the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC). He said that out of the total Rs 160 crore CAPEX budget allocated for JMC for the current financial year, only Rs 119 crore has been sanctioned so far, raising serious concerns over the fate of the remaining funds with barely days left before the financial year closes.
Jamwal pointed out that even the Rs 119 crore was sanctioned only after the BJP raised the issue during October-November last year, questioning the intent and urgency of the government. In contrast, he said, Rs 138 crore has already been sanctioned to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, leaving only Rs 22 crore pending, which, he added, can still be utilised. However, he warned that the remaining Rs 41 crore meant for Jammu is unlikely to be used in the limited time left, effectively leading to its lapse.
Calling it a clear case of political discrimination, Jamwal alleged that the government is intentionally choking development in Jammu despite the district being severely affected by recent flash floods that damaged roads, drains, water supply systems, and other civic infrastructure. “This is not administrative delay but a calculated move to deprive Jammu of its rightful share,” he asserted.
He further alleged that out of the Rs 1700-1800 crore provided by the Centre for flood relief, only a fraction has been allocated for essential works, while several affected areas in Jammu city-including Gujjar Nagar, Gole Gujral, Pouni Chak, Bahu, Khandwal, and Karnaila Chak-have been ignored in the preparation of DPRs for relief and rehabilitation in municipal limits. “Hundreds of affected families have been left out. This exposes the hollow claims of equitable development,” he said.
Jamwal questioned whether the government is diverting funds from Jammu to Kashmir Valley or acting out of political bias against BJP. “With just 11 days left, how does the government expect these funds to be utilised?” he asked, terming the situation as administrative failure coupled with political prejudice.
Highlighting the ground impact, Jamwal said that due to non-release of funds, JMC is unable to clear pending payments to contractors, resulting in liabilities running into crores. “Contractors are on the verge of starvation and have stopped work due to non-payment. This has brought development activities in Jammu city to a standstill,” he said.
He accused the Omar Abdullah Government of even holding back funds sanctioned by the Centre for Jammu’s development, calling it a betrayal of public trust. “This stands in stark contrast to the government’s repeated claims of balanced and equitable development,” he added, reminding that such promises were also part of the National Conference’s election manifesto.
Demanding immediate release of pending funds, Jamwal urged the government to end what he termed as “politics of discrimination” and ensure justice to the people of Jammu.