Sajad Lone
Srinagar, Sept 14 (KNS): Several visiting delegations on Monday appealed authorities to ensure easy passage in meeting officials in Civil Secretariat and remove unnecessary hurdles imposed amid Covid-19 pandemic.

Talking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), delegations from north and south Kashmir complained of stopping them by security cops at the main entrance of Civil Secretariat after they travelled from far off places to meet officials for redressal of grievances.

“We came here after travelling 70-80 kilometers for genuine issues but unfortunately we pushed back with a disappointed face after denying permission from meeting officials by cops deputed there”, said Bilal Ahmad, who led delegation from north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

He alleged that cops were violating guidelines set by Government and didn’t bother to hear a single word from visiting persons.

“Government has framed guidelines in clear terms. Whosoever will visit Civil Secretariat should be allowed after being properly screened but unfortunately no such mechanism has been put in place at the entrance of Secretariat which has left visitors into further trouble”, he said and alleged only influential visitors are being allowed.

“We have been told to show Covid-19 report and when we brought it to fore, that too couldn’t ensure our entry into the building”, another delegation of south Kashmir told KNS.

Notably Government of Jammu and Kashmir UT in its Order No. 621-JK(GAD) of 2020 dated 05.06.2020 stated, “Routine issue of visitors/temporary passes should be suspended and only those visitors with proper permission of the officer, who they want to meet, should be allowed after being properly screened”. However several delegations alleged that the order is non-existent on the ground.(KNS)