Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu,DD: BJP VDG Cell State Convener Basant Raj Thakur has urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to immediately provide a government job to a family member of the late Swami Raj, a Village Defense Guard (VDG) member who lost his life while performing his duty in Bhatwal area of Billawar.
Basant Raj Thakur, accompanied by Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, Media Incharge, J&K BJP and VDG Cell Co-convenor Ramesh Katoch, was addressing a press conference at party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu.
Basant Raj Thakur, while addressing the media persons, said that Late Swami Raj was the sole bread earner for his family, which includes his wife Sato Devi, three sons, and a daughter. His untimely death has left the family in deep distress, both emotionally and financially.
In light of VDG’s sacrifice, Basant Raj Thakur has made a strong appeal to the government to not only provide a job to one of the family members but also to transfer his government-issued gun to his wife, Sato Devi, to ensure continued security and a sense of protection for the family.
Thakur said that Swami Raj laid down his life protecting his village and performing his duty as a VDG member. It is the moral responsibility of the government to stand by his family in this time of crisis. A government job to one of the family members would provide them financial security and dignity. The transfer of his weapon to his wife will serve as both a symbolic and practical step to ensure her safety.
Basant Raj Thakur further emphasized the critical role that VDGs play in safeguarding vulnerable border and rural areas from terrorism and infiltration, particularly in regions like Doda, Kishtwar, Bhaderwah, Ramban, Udhampur, Samba, Reasi, Billawar, Basohli, Rajouri, Poonch and many more areas. He added that the government must recognize and honour the sacrifices made by VDGs, many of whom serve in extremely dangerous and challenging conditions. He called upon senior government officials to expedite the necessary formalities and act with compassion and urgency.
“VDGs are the first line of defense in their villages. Their families should never feel abandoned in times of grief,” Thakur said and added that the BJP VDG Cell stands united in support of Swami Raj’s family and all other VDG families who have sacrificed for the safety and security of Jammu and Kashmir.DD
