Opposition Misleading People Over Sainik Colonies, Kashmiri Pandit Rehabilitation: PDP

Srinagar: The ruling PDP today criticised opposition parties in Jammu and Kashmir for trying to "mislead" the people of the state on issues like Sainik Colonies, rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits and new Industrial policy, terming their approach as "inappropriate and unfortunate".

"The Opposition is trying to mislead the masses on issues of Sainik Colony, (Kashmiri) Pandit rehabilitation and the Industrial policy. The government has been unambiguous in its stand and politicisation of such issues despite the clear approach of the Chief Minister is inappropriate and unfortunate," PDP chief spokesperson Mehboob Beg said.

He said the issue of establishing Sainik Colony in the Valley is a "figment of the Opposition's imagination".

"I reiterate that no non-resident will be allotted any land in the state. The law as well as the government's intention on that is very clear," he said.

The PDP spokesperson said the government is inclined towards building "mixed community colonies" and not "exclusive community colonies" for the Kashmiri Pandits.

"The government is open to all kinds of suggestions and believes in taking everyone onboard before arriving at any decision. However, there is no doubt that the government is committed towards the rehabilitation of the Kashmiri Pandits and any suggestion in this regard is most welcome," he said.

Mr Beg also said the government is working in a very "transparent" manner with an endeavour to take all stake holders along and was willing to re-look at the new Industrial policy, "taking reason, objectivity and implementation of the plan into account".

"The government, led by (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti is committed to preserving the Special Status of J&K and shall govern in strict compliance with the Agenda of Alliance. Let there be no doubt on that and any rumour-mongering by the Opposition in this regard will be nullified by the performance of the government," he said.