Locals Angry as 90% of Pahalgam Construction Notices Target Small Homeowners, Not Hoteliers
The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued 256 new notices for construction deviations in Pahalgam, adding to the growing concerns among locals over alleged bias in enforcement actions. Residents claim that while small homeowners are being penalized for minor extensions like bathrooms and storage spaces, large hotel owners who have constructed multi-story buildings with hundreds of rooms continue to operate without any action.
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Government Issues Fresh Notices
On Thursday, the Jammu and Kashmir government confirmed that a total of 256 notices had been issued under the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) for violations in construction regulations. This follows an earlier announcement of 269 notices, making it a total of 525 notices in recent weeks. The notices were issued as part of an official effort to curb unauthorized constructions in the region.
However, the move has sparked outrage among the local population, who argue that nearly 90% of these notices target small homeowners, particularly those who have built minor structures such as bathrooms or storage areas outside their homes. Many believe this enforcement is unfair, as it does not seem to apply equally to wealthy hoteliers who have built massive structures in the area.
Locals Raise Questions Over Selective Action
Residents have questioned why large hotels, some of which have constructed eight-story buildings with hundreds of rooms, have not received a single notice. They allege that authorities are focusing on small homeowners while ignoring big business interests in the region.
“Why are only locals being targeted? We have a right to build small extensions like bathrooms and stores. Meanwhile, luxury hotels are expanding without any restrictions,” said a local resident.
Another protester stated, “If the government is serious about maintaining Pahalgam’s natural beauty and preventing unauthorized construction, they should take action against everyone equally, not just the weaker sections of society.”
Waheed-ur-Rehman Para’s Role in Raising the Issue
MLA Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, had earlier raised a question in the Assembly about the total number of illegal and unauthorized constructions in Pahalgam. However, locals feel that he should have specifically asked how many of the notices were issued to small homeowners and how many were given to hoteliers.
They argue that the real issue is not just the number of notices but who is receiving them. “Waheed Para should have asked how many notices were given to local residents versus hotel owners. The government must answer this question,” said a resident.
Authorities Defend Their Actions
In response to these concerns, the Jammu and Kashmir government has maintained that the notices are issued based on clear violations of the law. The Chief Minister, who also serves as the Minister of Tourism, stated that the Pahalgam Development Authority is responsible for ensuring that all constructions adhere to legal permissions.
“The PDA is the nodal agency for checking deviations and unauthorized constructions in the notified areas. Demolition drives are carried out whenever required,” the minister said.
However, critics argue that enforcement should be fair and transparent. They demand that the government release a detailed breakdown of the notices, specifying how many were issued to local homeowners and how many to hotel businesses.
Growing Public Outrage
The issue has sparked protests in Pahalgam, with many locals calling for a review of the notices. They are demanding an independent investigation into the enforcement process to ensure that it is not biased against small property owners.
“We are not against laws, but they should apply to everyone. The government must take strict action against illegal hotel constructions as well,” said another resident.
The ongoing controversy has put pressure on the government to address public concerns and ensure fairness in its actions. As the debate continues, locals are determined to fight for their rights and seek justice in what they see as a deeply unfair situation.
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