Massive Land Grab in Kashmir? PDP’s Iltija Mufti Slams 5000-Kanal Acquisition for NIT Campus!

Iltija Mufti

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has raised strong objections to the acquisition of 5000 kanals of prime agricultural land in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, for establishing a new campus of the National Institute of Technology (NIT).

Taking to social media platform X, Mufti expressed her concerns, calling the move another example of what she describes as unchecked land appropriation under the guise of “development” in the region.

“Grabbing land in Kashmir under the ruse of ‘development’ in J&K continues unabated,” she wrote. “Pray tell what’s the need to seize 5000 kanals of prime agricultural land in Pulwama to establish a NIT? If education was such a priority, why have a lopsided reservation in the first place?”

Mufti’s remarks underline growing discontent among locals and political leaders who view such large-scale land acquisitions as detrimental to Kashmir’s agricultural economy. Critics argue that while education infrastructure is essential, utilising fertile agricultural land for construction projects risks long-term harm to the region’s resources and livelihoods.

This controversy adds to the ongoing debate over land reforms and development priorities in Jammu and Kashmir, with many demanding a balanced approach that safeguards local interests.

The government has yet to respond to Mufti’s statement or provide further details on the proposed NIT campus in Pulwama.

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