Ganderbal, Jan 29: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Wednesday accused the Omar Abdullah-led government of selective targeting in Sonamarg, alleging that locals with valid permissions are facing demolitions. He claimed that such actions were an attempt to “normalise” the August 5 decision.
Speaking to reporters in Sonamarg, Parra highlighted the case of Bashir Ahmad Mir, a PDP leader from Kangan, who contested elections in Ganderbal against Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. He alleged that the National Conference (NC) is attempting to suppress local voices, asking, “Is the National Conference and its people trying to snatch livelihood?”
Parra further alleged that a day earlier in Pahalgam, the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) CEO was transferred amid reports of 300 illegal constructions. However, he pointed out that while large-scale illegal structures continue unchecked, locals are being denied permission for legitimate construction on their own land.
“Similar issues persist in Sonamarg, where illegal constructions are rampant, yet those with proper permits and land ownership are being denied their rights,” he said. Parra criticised the administration for what he termed an “unjust crackdown on common people.
During his visit to Sonamarg, the MLA assessed the situation surrounding the alleged targeted demolition of a hotel owned by Bashir Ahmad Mir, saying the PDP leader was being subjected to “political vendetta”.
“I visited here to see the situation, and there is complete injustice against Bashir Mir. The NC government is misusing its power. They are acting like the Yogi government,” Parra remarked. “National Conference is “the largest land grabber.”
He called on the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to intervene. The PDP leader also urged the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to launch a thorough probe into illegal constructions in Sonamarg. He questioned why certain structures are being demolished while others remain untouched, demanding transparency and accountability from the authorities.
‘UCC implementation premature, India’s diversity must be respected’
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Wednesday said that implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India would be premature. He called for the need to respect the country’s diversity.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Parra highlighted India’s unique social fabric, saying it is the second-largest Muslim-populated country and thrives on faith and unity.
The MLA said that matters related to Waqf and Muslim personal laws directly concern the Muslim community, and their voices must be included in any decision-making process regarding these issues.
“India is a diverse country where every community has its own laws, conditions, culture and customs. Implementing the UCC at this time is not appropriate, as many people have concerns about it. In my opinion, we are not in favour of such laws right now,” he said.
The PDP leader said that a delegation led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq had recently visited New Delhi to discuss the issue, recommending a thorough review of the proposal before any decision is made. He urged the government to consider these recommendations and ensure inclusivity in the process.
