Jammu, May 19, KNT: A demolition drive in parts of Jammu has triggered concern and political debate after reports emerged that more than 40 residential structures belonging to economically weaker and tribal families were demolished, leaving several families displaced and raising questions over rehabilitation and administrative action.
Local sources said the demolitions were carried out in different parts of Jammu including Sidra, using heavy machinery, including bulldozers, resulting in widespread damage to residential structures and forcing several families to seek temporary shelter.
The reported action has drawn attention because many affected families allegedly belonged to economically vulnerable and tribal communities, with claims emerging that some households lost shelter overnight.
The demolitions have reignited debate in Jammu and Kashmir over land rights, eviction procedures, and safeguards available to marginalized communities facing administrative action.
Political voices and civil society members reacting to the development expressed concern over the humanitarian implications of the demolition drive and called for clarity regarding legal procedures, rehabilitation measures, and official policy governing such actions.
Some critics questioned the silence of the Omar Abdullah-led Jammu and Kashmir government and demanded an official response regarding the circumstances under which the demolitions were carried out.
The issue has also generated comparisons in political discourse with demolition drives witnessed in other parts of the country, though officials have not publicly responded to such characterizations.
The controversy assumes significance because eviction and demolition drives involving vulnerable populations have repeatedly triggered legal and political debate across India, particularly concerning due process and protection of residential rights.
Victims described scenes of distress and uncertainty following the demolitions, saying the action had severely disrupted family life and livelihoods.
Some of the Gujjar organizations emphasized that demolition drives involving residential structures are generally expected to follow statutory procedures and judicial safeguards. [KNT]
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