KCCI engages with J&K Police leadership; raises crucial business issues; Kabza mafia concerns

24 July 2024

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Srinagar, July 24: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, engaged in a productive two-hour meeting with Director General of Police, R.R. Swain, at Police Headquarters in Srinagar on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. The meeting saw participation from Additional Director General of Police (Headquarters) M.K. Sinha (IPS) and Inspector General of Police (Traffic) B.S. Tuti (IPS). The KCCI delegation included notable members such as Mushtaq Chaya, Faiz Bakshi, Umar Tibetbaqal, Mushtaq Ahmad Wani, Gowhar Maqbool, Mauzam Bakshi, Rauf Tramboo, Nasir Shah, Manzoor Wangnoo, Showkat Pakhtoon, Mohammed Arif, Noor Mohammad Shangloo, Suhail Jan, Farooq Kuthoo, Mohammad Ibrahim Siah, Sameer Baktoo, , Farooq Hafiz, Mukhtar Ahmad (Jaan) & Syed Mohammad Afaq Qadri.

The KCCI delegation was warmly received by the DGP, who expressed appreciation for their presence and attentiveness to the pressing issues requiring government and police department intervention. The KCCI highlighted several critical concerns, including:

1. Renewal of Tourism Registration Licenses:
– The delegation emphasized the challenges in renewing tourism licenses due to delays linked with obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from multiple departments. KCCI urged for a streamlined, time-bound renewal process independent of inter-departmental NOCs to align with the Prime Minister’s “Ease of Doing Business” policy.

2. Development of New Tourist Destinations:
– KCCI advocated for the fast-track development of newly identified tourist destinations as per approved Master Plans. This approach aims to relieve pressure on existing sites, foster sustainable tourism, and create job opportunities while considering environmental and climate impacts.

3. NOCs from Fire & Emergency Services:
– Concerns were raised about the stringent norms for obtaining NOCs from the Fire Department, which hinder operational efficiency for hotels and restaurants. KCCI suggested relaxing these norms and ensuring timely issuance of NOCs.

4. Character Certificate for Tourism Sector Renewals:
– The requirement for character certificates from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, following police verification, was identified as a bottleneck. KCCI proposed either dispensing with this requirement or simplifying the process by empowering local police stations to issue these certificates.

5. Traffic Disruptions and Use of Sirens:
– The disruptive impact of VIP movements and indiscriminate use of sirens on traffic and public convenience was discussed. KCCI highlighted the need for mitigating these disruptions, especially in emergencies where ambulances should be given priority.

6. Illegal Occupation of Footpaths:
– The illegal occupation of footpaths, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and business losses for shopkeepers, was highlighted. KCCI demanded immediate clearance of these encroachments to restore normalcy in market areas.

7. Encroachment by Qabza Mafia:
– KCCI raised the issue of land encroachments by powerful groups under various banners, particularly in areas like Pahalgam, Yusmarg (Nagbal), Srinagar, and Sonamarg. They urged the police to take stern action against these encroachments to protect citizens’ and businesses’ rights.

8. Education Sector Challenges:
– The cumbersome processes for obtaining character certificates, NOCs, and other approvals for educational institutions were discussed. KCCI emphasized the need for a more efficient system to support the education sector.

9. Environmental Conservation:
– KCCI stressed the importance of conserving natural resources, particularly wetlands and lakes, and improving waste management. They pointed out existing hurdles and called for focused conservation efforts.

10. Traffic Management in Key Areas:
– The lack of traffic management in downtown areas and the frequent checks on tourist vehicles were raised. KCCI suggested better traffic control measures and a streamlined checking process for tourist vehicles.

11. Free Movement for Tourists:
– Issues regarding the stopping of tourists and trekkers in areas like Tossamaidan were discussed. KCCI proposed prior notifications for any restrictions to avoid inconvenience.

12. Foreigners Registration at the Airport:
– The time-consuming registration process for foreign tourists was highlighted. KCCI suggested a one-time registration process or an online option to simplify the procedure.

13. Vacation of Industrial Estates:
– The prolonged occupation of industrial estates by security forces was discussed. With the improved security situation, KCCI urged the vacation of these areas to foster industrial growth.

14. Lease Cases of Hotels:
– The uncertainty over lease extensions for hotels, particularly in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, was discussed. KCCI suggested extending leases to support the hospitality sector’s growth.

Positive response from the Police leadership

DGP R.R. Swain responded positively to the issues raised, assuring that traffic management drives would commence soon, misuse of sirens would be curbed, and actions against the Qabza Mafia would be taken. He also emphasized the implementation of “Ease of Doing Business” in spirit, with a fast-tracked NOC issuance process. The DGP announced plans to personally visit problem areas with KCCI representatives to address issues firsthand.

Commitment to ongoing collaboration

The DGP assured the formation of a joint committee and regular meetings with KCCI to resolve emerging issues. He committed to raising matters beyond his jurisdiction with the government to seek solutions. The KCCI President and team expressed their gratitude for the DGP’s time, patience, and understanding in addressing their concerns.