Srinagar, Mar 22: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra on Saturday strongly advocated for the rights of the Gujjar community, urging the J&K Assembly to fully implement the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
Speaking during the discussion on forest grants in the Assembly, Parra emphasised that the Gujjars have been the traditional custodians of forests for generations and must be granted legal recognition and protection of their rights over forest lands. He highlighted the need for better implementation of the FRA to ensure grazing rights, land ownership, and protection for the Gujjar and other tribal communities dependent on forest resources for their livelihood.
The PDP leader expressed concern over the increasing pattern of violence against the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities over the past three months. He called for immediate measures to address their vulnerabilities and prevent targeted harassment.
MLA Pulwama urged the government to take concrete steps to ensure their safety and security, emphasising the specific and effective implementation of the FRA to protect their rights. He asked the concerned minister to address the pressing challenges faced by these communities and put an end to their persecution.
Parra pressed the government to allocate resources for infrastructure development in tribal areas, including the construction of roads, borewells, and irrigation facilities. He particularly stressed the urgency of addressing the water scarcity issue by enhancing irrigation canal networks and implementing sustainable water conservation strategies.
During his address, Parra called for a comprehensive plan for the revival and restoration of the Jhelum River, emphasising flood control measures and ecological restoration to mitigate the long-term impact of climate change and environmental degradation in the region.
Reaffirming PDP’s commitment to the welfare of marginalised communities, the MLA urged the administration to take concrete steps to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of Gujjars and other tribal groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
