Srinagar, Apr 1 (KNS): Peoples Conference president and MLA Sajad Lone on Wednesday questioned the government’s decision to allow the introduction of a private member’s bill on lease renewal, alleging that it primarily benefits the “super elite” while ignoring the poor.
Referring to the move by the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lone said the treasury benches did not oppose the bill, which seeks extension of leases on government land that have expired.
“The bill pertains to some of the costliest real estate in Kashmir. It is aimed to help the super elite,” Lone said, adding that the land involved could be worth tens of thousands of crores.
“What is in it for the poorest of the poor? Lakhs of families living on two or three marlas of land continue to face harassment. Don’t they deserve a bill?” he asked.
Lone said he had raised the issue in the Assembly but did not receive a response.
He also sought details from the government on the total quantum of land owned by the government and leased out, as well as the lease amount being paid by the present allottees.
The private member’s bill, introduced earlier in the day, seeks renewal of leases for existing occupants and is seen as a move to counter the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 2022, which mandate auction of certain expired leases at market rates.(KNS)