“Betrayal of public mandate”: LoP Sunil Sharma slams NC over land grants bill

Srinagar : Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Wednesday accused the National Conference of misusing the public mandate, alleging that the government’s move to allow a private member’s bill seeking amendments to the Land Grants Act is aimed at protecting elite interests rather than safeguarding public assets and the rights of ordinary citizens.

LoP Sharma, per news agency said those who voted for the NC believing it would fight for their rights are now feeling let down.

“It is with deep regret that I say this: your mandate now appears to be used not for the public good, but to protect elite interests—be it Nedous, the Chief Minister’s personal property, or a circle of influential, cocktail-circuit associates,” he said.

Referring to the proposed legislation, he said, “A private member’s bill titled ‘Amendments to the Land Grants Act’ was introduced, and the Chief Minister lost no time in permitting it. This raises serious concerns. The move seems to be setting the stage for re-leasing vast tracts of government land at throwaway prices, continuing a pattern that has persisted for decades.”

“What message does this send to the common citizen?” he asked, adding, “It is deeply unfortunate that instead of safeguarding public assets and ensuring justice for the marginalised, the government appears to be enabling and patronising a privileged few—those who have long benefited at the cost of the poor. This is not just disappointing; it is a betrayal of trust.”—(KNO)