Anti-encroachment drive to continue, asserts DC Rajouri

‘Do not bet over my transfer’

JAMMU, MARCH 22 : Asserting that the removal of encroachments in the district is being done for ensuring public welfare in terms of developmental projects, the district administration Rajouri on Wednesday maintained that the ongoing anti-encroachment drive will continue till the illegal intrusions upon state lands are eliminated.

Having removed more than 126 structures in 3 separate anti-encroachment drives to retrieve 310 Kanal prime land worth Rs 70-80Cr in last 3 months, the district administration was accused by a certain section of ‘locals’ of supporting a particular community and acting against the other- which interestingly reversed depending upon where the machines were deployed at that particular period of time.

Speaking to the Rajouri locals on Wednesday, a composed Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, spoke in the voice of authority, as he clarified that the drive was devoid of any inclination towards or against any region or religion.

Hindu or Muslim, Rich or Poor, if the structures are illegal, they will be removed, said DC Rajouri.

“I am accountable to each and every person of this district. I have faith in my vision and your support, hence not affected by the allegations and criticism.

He complimented and appreciated the widespread public support and confidence extended by various socio-political and religious organisations, and vowed to complete the process in a fair, lawful and transparent manner.

“Let me assure you that nothing wrong would be done to any person. Let us complete this drive and then you can hold me guilty if I commit a mistake,” he said to a gathering of the public.

“We are not doing this for ourselves. My salary or that of our officers would remain the same even if we had not executed this drive. This is for a larger public good,” he said.

He further said that the anti-encroachment drive is planned and executed based on the requirement of developmental projects, nature of encroachments and timeline for developmental projects to be implemented.

“The drive is an ongoing process and will continue as per plan. We have issued notices to 352 persons for removal of their structures,” he said.

Referring to the speculations which were rife over his transfer from the district in Tuesday’s cabinet meeting, Choudhary asked not to bet on his transfer.

“I am neither dependent nor wanting of transfer,” said Choudhary, one of the most dynamic officers in the state, currently posted in his home district.