Sakina leads NC protest against ‘admin’s failure’ to ensure basic amenities in Damhal-Hanjipora

National Conference workers led by its State Secretary, Sakina Itoo held a protest in Damhal-Hanjipora in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Thursday against the administration for “failing” to ensure basic amenities in the area.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir after leading a protest rally in Kulgam, Itoo, a former cabinet minister, said that the area faces severe deficiencies in basic amenities such as electricity, drinking water and other essential needs.
She said the erratic and escalating electricity bills have jumped from 900 to 1500 rupees, coupled with frequent power cuts. She criticised the poor condition of irrigation canals in Noorabad, Banimulla and Aharbal, which, according to her, are now facing significant maintenance issues despite being historically reliable.
The NC leader alleged that the Scheduled Tribe (ST) residents in forest areas who were previously granted relief by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah are now facing issues as the forest and revenue departments erect boundary wires around their homes.
“There is a scarcity of essential commodities like kerosene oil and sugar are nowhere available. The severe staff shortages in the hospitals and the dilapidated state of roads in Damhal-Hanjipora are adding to the people’s woes,” she alleged.
Sakina mentioned specific instances of medical staff being reassigned. This, she said, leaves the local dispensary understaffed and unable to provide even basic first aid at ‘Balsaren’ village. She also alleged that there is a staff dearth in many hospitals in Noorabad.
When asked about her expectations from the government, Itoo expressed scepticism, saying that an elected government would have been more responsive to such issues. However, she still hopes that the current administration will address the genuine needs of the people.
The NC leader said the protest was a peaceful attempt to highlight these grievances and urge the administration to take action. “This comes amid the heavy burden of inflation on the poor and the lack of viable livelihood options for people,” she added.
Itoo later presented a memorandum to the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Damhal-Hanjipora.