JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Many important issues were discussed during Monday’s proceedings in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, but the most prominent was the government’s changed stance on LPG cylinders. The government, which had previously promised 12 free LPG cylinders annually, now appears to be backtracking on this promise.
Of the nine private member bills introduced in the Assembly, two were rejected by voice vote, while six were withdrawn by the concerned members after the government’s assurances. One bill was only introduced.
The rejected bills include a proposal related to the preservation of temples and protection of their properties from encroachment and a proposal to establish Sheikh-ul-Alam University in Pulwama.
Meanwhile, the Deputy CM informed that a plan worth Rs 84.90 crore has been prepared to improve infrastructure in transit colonies and migrant camps for displaced Kashmiri Hindus.
The biggest issue arose when the government clarified that no proposal to provide 12 free LPG cylinders was under consideration. However, it did announce the provision of six free cylinders annually to families covered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), along with the implementation of an additional free ration scheme.
The opposition has reacted sharply to this decision. The former Chief Minister, while targeting the government, said that this government blames its failures on the lack of statehood, despite having full power to make many important decisions.
This issue has now become the center of political debate and is likely to see more heated discussions in the coming days.
