Kathua, Jammu: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, Jitendra Singh, made a strong statement today in Kathua, Jammu, affirming that there will be no compromise in dealing with illegal crushers, mining activities, land encroachment, and drug peddling.
“Anyone linked with illegal crushers, unauthorized mining, or land encroachment will not be spared, no matter how influential they believe themselves to be,” Singh declared. He emphasized that no individual has the right to erode the foundations of critical infrastructure or to profit from activities that harm society, such as drug trafficking.
Singh’s remarks came after a nearly three-hour public durbar where he listened to various citizens’ delegations, aiming to resolve their grievances on the spot with the Deputy Commissioner and other senior officials. The Minister highlighted the destructive cycle of illegal mining and drug abuse, noting its role in facilitating terrorism and other social evils. “Exemplary and punitive action will be taken against those involved in these crimes, irrespective of their political affiliations or perceived influence,” he warned.
The Minister informed that local authorities have already acted against 25 illegal crushers and are preparing a fresh list of nearly a dozen more to take strict legal action. Singh assured that all necessary measures are being implemented to address rising terror incidents and restore public confidence, with a promise that normalcy will return within a week.
Singh also urged society to remain vigilant and support the government’s efforts to combat terrorism. He announced that Village Defence Committees (VDCs) are being strengthened to enhance local security against terrorist threats.
Addressing the issue of cattle smuggling, Singh vowed to tackle the crime with an iron hand. He lamented the spread of drug menace from Punjab to Katra, tarnishing the holy city’s reputation, and urged locals to protect their children from falling prey to addiction. He also warned against land encroachment, stating that anyone found guilty will face severe consequences.
Singh highlighted the significant transformation of the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda Parliamentary constituency over the past decade. “Milestones of development can be seen every two kilometers in the constituency,” he said. The Minister cited the establishment of North India’s first biotech park, a seed processing plant, over a dozen bridges including the iconic Atal Setu, as key achievements of the Modi government’s tenure.
“The last decade was dedicated to overcoming the shortcomings of previous regimes. Now, the government is focused on consolidating the gains of the past decade in its new term,” Singh pledged.
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