MLA, DDC Member inaugurate public facilities
Excelsior Correspondent
SUCHETGARH, Nov 28: Senior Congress leader and DDC Suchetgarh, Taranjit Singh Tony today urged the J&K government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah to prioritize rural development and address the long-standing neglect of villages across Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasized the need to expand developmental initiatives beyond urban limits and into rural areas, which have remained marginalized under successive regimes.
The senior Congress leader while inaugurating several development works in Haripur Panchayat of Suchetgarh. On the occasion, MLA Suchetgarh, Gharu Bhagat and Kanu Devi, ex-Sarpanch of Haripur Panchayat.
Criticizing the earlier governance approach, Tony said, “Even Omar Abdullah’s own constituency was neglected during the previous government’s tenure. The focus remained confined to superficial beautification and limited municipal zones, while rural areas were left bereft of meaningful development.”
He stressed the urgency for the present government to shift its priorities and give a significant impetus to rural infrastructure and welfare.
Tony highlighted the importance of empowering grassroots governance and demanded the immediate construction of Panchayat Bhawans in every Panchayat of Jammu region. “Panchayat Bhawans will serve as centres of local governance and community activities, strengthening the Panchayati Raj system and empowering rural populations,” he said.
The Congress leader also called for the completion of the long-pending construction of the District Development Council (DDC) building at Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu. He stressed that the government must expedite this project to provide a functional space for elected DDCs to deliberate and address issues concerning the public effectively.
Expressing concern over the slow pace of development in rural areas, Tony urged the government to issue clear directions to the concerned authorities to bridge the gap between urban and rural infrastructure. He underscored the need for equitable development to ensure that the aspirations of rural communities are met with dignity and fairness.
“The government must ensure that rural areas receive the same level of attention and resources as urban centers. Only then can we achieve holistic growth and prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.