Daily Wagers to Be Regularised in Phases, Cabinet Has Deliberated: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary
ANN NEWS
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday said that the issue of daily wagers was discussed in detail during a recent cabinet meeting and that the administration is seriously considering their phase-wise regularisation.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event, Choudhary said the intent to regularise daily wagers remains firm. He recalled that Omar Abdullah, during his earlier tenure before 2014, had introduced a regularisation scheme for daily wagers in the Power Development Department.
“Our intention is clear. We want to regularise daily wagers,” Choudhary said. “However, the situation has changed. Jammu and Kashmir is now a Union Territory, not a state. The funding we receive is far less than earlier, which makes it impossible to regularise everyone at one go. That is why a phased approach is being examined.”
He added that the commitment to daily wagers was part of the National Conference manifesto and that the administration still has time to fulfil the promise. “It has been just one year since we assumed office. We still have four more years. This promise will be fulfilled before the next Assembly elections,” he said.
Responding to questions about the ongoing controversy surrounding the Ratle power project in Kishtwar, Choudhary took a sharp dig at the Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, accusing him of avoiding the media at a time when serious allegations have surfaced.
He said Sharma, who earlier would frequently address the media and criticise the functioning of the administration, is now “missing in action” when questions are being raised about alleged interference in the execution of power projects in Kishtwar.
Choudhary alleged that two MLAs from Kishtwar and other influential leaders are obstructing work on the Ratle project and questioned who was controlling recruitment and supply permissions at these sites. “Who is issuing slips for employment? Who decides who can supply sand and bajri? These questions need answers,” he said.
Calling for transparency, the Deputy Chief Minister said development projects should not be run through influence or proximity to powerful individuals. “Every deserving and needy person in Jammu and Kashmir should get employment opportunities. Projects cannot be managed through lies, pressure, or backdoor interference,” he said.
He further added that those levelling allegations should come forward and clarify their role instead of remaining silent when questions are raised against them.
