RTI Movement raises key environment, tourism issues in meeting with DC Budgam

Ziraat Times News Desk

Budgam: A delegation from the Jammu & Kashmir Right to Information (RTI) Movement, led by its Chairman Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat, called on the newly posted Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Budgam, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, on Wednesday. The delegation extended a warm welcome to the DC on assuming office as the District Magistrate and used the opportunity to highlight several pressing issues concerning the district.

During the meeting, the RTI Movement delegation raised matters related to tourism promotion, environmental conservation, good governance, land acquisition laws, and protection of forest and grazing rights. Particular emphasis was laid on implementing central legislations concerning land, mining, and forest rights to ensure that the benefits reach the local population.

The delegation strongly advocated for the rights of pastoralist communities, especially Chopans and Gujjars, demanding better access to highland pastures and the creation of a single-window system to streamline the process for obtaining grazing permissions.

The RTI Movement also sought the opening of major tourist destinations such as Yusmarg, Doodhpathri, and Tosamaidan for eco-tourism and trekking activities, particularly in the Pir Panjal range. “People associated with trekking and tourism have invested significantly in this sector and need supportive policies from the administration,” said Dr Raja Muzaffar.

Concerns regarding illegal riverbed and clay mining were also brought to the attention of the DC. The delegation highlighted recent violations in Surasyar block, where fruit trees were allegedly felled with inadequate compensation by a power transmission company.

The delegation commended the efforts of the district administration and local police, particularly SDPO Charar-e-Sharief and SHO Chadoora, for acting against illegal mining operations following directions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

“We urged the DC to ensure strict adherence to mining laws and proper screening before issuing disposal permits. The NGT has taken serious note of such violations in the ongoing Sukhnag case,” Dr Muzaffar added.

Accompanying Dr Muzaffar were senior RTI Movement members Mushtaq Ahmad Lone (District Coordinator), Shabir Ahmad Bhat, Basharat Chopan, and Raja Amir Khan.

The Deputy Commissioner is reported to have given a patient hearing and assured appropriate action on the matters raised.