SRINAGAR, Aug 26:
Members in the State Legislative Assembly today expressed concern over the loss of lives and hardships caused to people in the wake of ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops and asked the State Government to provide immediate relief to the affected.
Several members representing constituencies falling close to the LoC raised the issue during a special discussion allowed by Speaker Mubarak Gul on the issue in the House.
They asked the State Government to take measures for providing relief to the affected people.
“The ceasefire violations and their effects on people are a cause of concern not only for J&K but also for the entire nation. The situation is alarming and some precious lives have been lost,” National Panthers Party member Harsh Dev Singh said.
The member castigated the State Government for what he said neglect of the victims of the cross-border shelling.
“It is surprising that the Government is not showing any seriousness,” he said.
Ashwani Kumar, Independent, said it was a humanitarian issue which needs immediate steps to provide relief to the affected people.
“The Government should construct shelters for the people living in these areas so that they can have a roof over their heads,” he said.
NC member S S Slathia said the Government should compensate the victims adequately while the Centre should resume the dialogue process with Pakistan for ending ceasefire violations.
“Bullet for bullet response will not ease the problem. Dialogue should be resumed with Pakistan for solving the problem,” he said.
Replying to the discussion, Minister of State for Home Sajad Kitchloo said the Government is aware of sufferings of the people and has taken necessary steps.
Kitchloo said 5000 families, comprising 15,000 people, have been affected by the cross-border shelling and the Government has provided them accommodation in Government buildings at R S Pura.
“I have visited the area and provided ex-gratia relief to the victims on the spot. I have directed the administration to construct at least one safety bunker in every village affected by the shelling,” he said. (AGENCIES)