Srinagar: Senior National Conference leader and chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq Thursday termed the recent meeting between Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and MP Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi as a significant step towards unity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to the media according to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS), Tanvir said that the meeting took place in a positive atmosphere, where key issues concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir were discussed. He stressed the importance of religious leaders coming together to bridge any existing divides among the people.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir should remain united, and such meetings play a crucial role in fostering harmony. We should welcome this development with an open mind,” he stated.
Commenting on the Waqf Amendment Bill, the NC leader opposed the proposed changes, calling them unjust and against the interests of minorities in India. He pointed out that 11 members had submitted dissent notes, highlighting procedural lapses in the bill.
“This bill will impact nearly 4 lakh Waqf properties, many of which belong to minorities. The provision to include a non-Muslim member in the Central Waqf Board is unprecedented and discriminatory since Hindu and Sikh boards have no such requirement. Why should Waqf be treated differently?” he questioned.
He also raised concerns over the appointment of collectors as arbitrators, arguing that it would allow the government to influence decisions regarding Waqf properties.
“This bill is an attempt to undermine minority rights, and we strongly condemn and oppose it,” he claimed.
Discussing tourism development in Kashmir, he revealed that he had met the Union Tourism Minister to propose a Rs 200 crore project aimed at transforming Dal Lake, Anchar Lake, Khushal Lake, and Gil Lake into tourist villages.
He particularly stated the development of Mir Beheri, a settlement within Dal Lake, into a major tourist attraction, which he said would boost the local economy and improve the livelihoods of residents.
“The Union Minister has given his approval for the project. Now, the final nod from the state is awaited. Once implemented, this initiative will integrate Mir Behri into the city’s economy, providing employment and business opportunities for the people living inside the lake,” he explained.
Addressing the upcoming budget, he highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir lacked a government when the previous budget was passed. Now, with a government in place, he expressed hope that the Union Finance Minister would announce relief measures for the people of the region.
“CM has met the Union Finance Minister several times. We hope that the government recognizes the unique challenges of Jammu and Kashmir and takes appropriate steps to provide financial relief,” he concluded. (KINS)
