Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD) Frustrated by unfulfilled promises and facing imminent displacement, around 30 shopkeepers from Jammu’s Nai Basti launched a hunger strike today after repeated attempts to secure rehabilitation from the administration failed.
The shopkeepers had received eviction notices from the Highway Authorities for the expansion of the Satwari-Bikram Chowk stretch of the Jammu-Pathankot highway.
Accompanied by their families and backed by local BJP leaders, the shopkeepers accused the administration of reneging on its commitments, despite Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s assurance in July last year that they would be relocated before eviction.
“Despite the LG’s assurance, the administration has ignored our plight. Three months ago, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) Commissioner verbally assured us that we would be relocated to the under-construction Chanderbagha Hall. Our documents were even collected, yet eviction notices were issued without providing an alternative,” said BJP leader and former corporator Pawan.
The issue has sparked political outcry, with BJP MLAs Sham Lal Sharma, Surjit Singh Salathia, Vikram Randhawa, and Dr. Narinder Singh meeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to push for a resolution. The BJP also raised the matter in the J&K Assembly, demanding proper rehabilitation for the 39 affected shopkeepers set to lose their business premises due to the ongoing Kunjwani-Satwari flyover project.
Adding to the pressure, Congress Working President Raman Bhalla extended support to the protesters, criticizing the administration for failing to honor its promises.
“The LG administration made commitments to these shopkeepers, and BJP leaders even celebrated the assurance by distributing sweets. But now, instead of providing a solution, eviction notices have been served. This betrayal is unacceptable,” Bhalla said.
The shopkeepers have vowed to continue their hunger strike until their demands are met.(DD)