SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS RAISED OVER “MENDHAR JODO YATRA”; CITIZENS DEMAND TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN DEVELOPMENT WORKS

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

ALTAF HUSSAIN 

MENDHAR MARCH 01:-The “Mendhar Jodo Yatra” has come under growing public scrutiny as serious concerns have been raised by citizens, former PRI members, Sarpanches, and social activists across all three tehsils of the Mendhar constituency — Tehsil Balakote, Tehsil Mankote and Tehsil Mendhar.

Prominent voices from different parts of the constituency have questioned the real objective of the Mendhar Jodo Yatra, alleging that government employees appear more engaged in participating in the event than in addressing pressing public issues, particularly the ongoing water crisis affecting several villages.

It has been alleged that certain PRI-approved development plans have been altered or delayed. In areas where genuine need for water supply schemes and hand pumps was identified and formally approved during Gram Sabha meetings, the sanctioned works are reportedly not being implemented. Instead, it is being claimed that priority is being given to individuals associated with Cabinet Minister Javed Ahmed Rana or members of his political circle.

These developments have triggered serious questions among the public regarding the purpose of the Yatra and the role of government employees in such activities. Citizens are asking whether public servants should be participating in such events or focusing strictly on delivering essential services. Questions are also being raised about what tangible benefit the common citizen receives from the initiative and whether the Yatra is effectively functioning as a political campaign in preparation for future elections. Concerns have been voiced regarding the alleged involvement of Advocate Zeeshan Rana, son of Cabinet Minister Javed Ahmed Rana, with some citizens questioning whether the platform is being used as groundwork for the 2029 elections.

Former Sarpanch Aftab Jatt from Tehsil Mendhar strongly criticized what he described as administrative negligence and lack of accountability. He questioned the functioning of multiple departments and expressed concern over damaged roads, deteriorating infrastructure, and worsening water conditions. He emphasized that the Central Government has clearly stated that employees found involved in corruption or wrongdoing should face strict action, including removal from service. He stated that the water crisis has created unbearable conditions for the people and warned that if public funds have been misused, those responsible would be held accountable. According to him, while citizens struggle for a single drop of water, political activities appear to be taking priority.

Social activist Mohin Aftab Khan from Block Mankote, Panchayat Sagra, raised specific concerns about an approved groundwater pump project in Mohalla jattan, Ward No. 1 of Sagra. He stated that during a properly convened Gram Sabha meeting, the pump installation plan was approved under PRI guidelines, vetted by the BDO, forwarded for execution, and tendering was completed. Some materials reportedly reached the site, yet the pump has not been installed. He questioned who has taken control of the project and why pressure is allegedly being exerted to arrange phone calls from the minister or his associates for the work to proceed. He clarified that the plan was approved under Panchayati Raj Institutions and has no direct connection with any minister. While welcoming pump installations in other areas such as Uchhad, and Sagra, Ghani he questioned why the sanctioned project for his locality remains pending. He appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to ensure fairness and stated that while political leaders may shift projects for political reasons, the district administration must uphold justice and implement approved works at designated locations. He also alleged that repeated assurances from officials of the Ground Water Department have not resulted in action.

Manwar Khan from Panchayat Kangra Galhota in Tehsil Balakote highlighted concerns over contaminated drinking water being supplied to residents. He stated that nearly a month before Ramadan last year, he personally informed the AEE about river water contaminated with garbage and dead poultry near the intake source. He was assured that corrective work would begin before Ramadan. However, not only was the promise not fulfilled last year, but a second Ramadan has now arrived without resolution. He emphasized that the funds being used are Government of India funds meant for public welfare and not from any minister’s personal resources. He stressed that it is the responsibility of the concerned departments to utilize central allocations properly and ensure safe drinking water for villagers. He alleged that some officials appear more engaged in political activities than in fulfilling their official duties, leading to delays in executing sanctioned PRI works. He warned that deliberate delays could result in funds lapsing and depriving genuine beneficiaries. He questioned whether all areas of the constituency are receiving equal attention and urged accountability from elected representatives.

Citizens from across the Mendhar constituency have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to conduct on-ground verification of water supply projects and ensure transparency. They have also requested administrative authorities to closely monitor the situation and guarantee fairness in the execution of development works. An appeal has been made to Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, to intervene and ensure that government employees remain focused on their public service responsibilities.

The people have reiterated that funds allocated under PRI plans are public money meant for the welfare of all citizens and should not be influenced by political preferences or affiliations. The demand from the public remains clear: transparency, accountability, and unbiased implementation of development projects, particularly those related to essential services like drinking water. As questions surrounding the Mendhar Jodo Yatra continue to intensify, citizens await clarification and concrete action from the concerned authorities.