Jammu, Jan 12: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA and former minister Sham Lal Sharma on Monday questioned why Jammu should not raise a demand for a National Law University (NLU).
He was reacting to the Chief Minister’s remarks asking why those alleging discrimination over the proposed NLU did not raise similar concerns when institutions such as IIT and IIM were established in Jammu and not in Kashmir.
“We are not raising a hue and cry over the issue of the NLU. We are only raising a public demand. Why should we not raise a public demand for an NLU? The Chief Minister himself speaks about issues related to his Assembly constituency. It appears that he does not consider Jammu as part of J&K. He should change his perspective,” Sharma said while responding to media queries after attending the Jammu district review meeting.
He further questioned whether the demand raised by the people of Jammu was not genuine.
“Is the demand of the people of Jammu not genuine, considering the climatic conditions, security perspectives, and other aspects? Even earlier, the central government allocated institutions in both regions. We are not saying that Kashmir should not get an NLU. But if Jammu also raises a demand for it, why should the National Conference or the Chief Minister object?” he asked.
The BJP MLA said Jammu had secured major institutions only after prolonged struggles, including IIT, AIIMS, Jammu University, and the Medical College, while IIM was allotted by the Centre.
“These are the reasons such demands arise and are later twisted and taken out of context. If we want to stay together, judicious decisions must be taken. The sentiments and requirements of the people here cannot be ignored,” Sharma said, obliquely referring to the demand for a separate Jammu state, which he had recently supported, once again triggering political debate.
Commenting on the review meeting, Sharma said it was long overdue and should be held at least twice a year.
“It should have been convened when the plan was finalised. However, better late than never. We received the agenda only during the meeting, whereas as per past practice, it should have been shared at least three days in advance to allow proper review of allocations, expenditure, work done, and shortcomings,” he said.
Sharma said BJP MLAs raised several pressing issues during the meeting, including frequent power disconnections and unscheduled long power cuts in Jammu, even as temperatures dropped below zero.
He said the Chief Minister assured that power supply to farmers’ pump sets would not be cut until March 31, even if smart meters had not been installed, and that farmers would be charged at flat rates.
“All 10 BJP MLAs also raised issues related to drinking water supply, irrigation, and flood damage, seeking judicious use of central assistance. The Chief Minister announced that a Rs 1,500-crore plan to lift 300 to 400 cusecs of Chenab water to address water shortages is in the pipeline,” Sham Lal Sharma added.
