MP Khatana Accuses NC Government of Neglecting Remote Areas of Kathua, Calls for Balanced Development
Malhar (Bani), Kathua: Member of Parliament (Nominated) and senior BJP leader Er. Gulam Ali Khatana on Saturday criticised the National Conference-led government over the alleged neglect of hilly and remote areas of Kathua district, particularly the far-flung regions of Bani tehsil.
Addressing a cultural festival at Malhar, Khatana said residents of geographically challenging areas deserved equal development opportunities, access to essential services and adequate attention from the government. He stressed that the needs and aspirations of people living in remote areas must be reflected in development planning and the implementation of welfare schemes.
Khatana highlighted the need for focused intervention in key sectors, including road connectivity, healthcare, education, drinking water, electricity, telecommunications and livelihood generation. He said geographical remoteness should not deprive people of basic amenities or equal opportunities.
“The people of hilly and remote areas of Kathua are an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir and deserve the same dignity, facilities and development opportunities as people living in more accessible areas. The government must move beyond assurances and ensure that development reaches the last household in these far-flung regions,” Khatana said.
Appreciating the organisers and participants of the cultural festival, Khatana said such events played an important role in preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage, folk traditions, local art and customs. He said cultural programmes also provided a platform for local artists and youth to showcase their talent while promoting social harmony.
He also called for greater efforts to promote tourism and cultural activities in Bani and adjoining hilly areas, observing that the region had considerable potential for sustainable tourism, employment generation and economic growth.
Khatana stressed the need to support local artisans, young entrepreneurs and cultural organisations, stating that the region’s cultural heritage could serve as both a source of pride and a means of livelihood for local communities.
Urging the National Conference-led government to address the developmental concerns of Bani and other remote areas of Kathua, he called for effective implementation of public welfare schemes and stronger mechanisms to resolve public grievances.
He said balanced regional development was essential for strengthening public confidence and ensuring that no community felt excluded from the mainstream of progress. He further emphasised that the concerns of people living in difficult terrain must receive due priority in government planning, resource allocation and public service delivery.
The cultural festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents and cultural enthusiasts, reflecting the strong attachment of the people of Malhar to their traditions and cultural identity.
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