The Municipal Committee (MC) Kalakote finds itself embroiled in a web of corruption and mismanagement allegations, with serious charges of fund embezzlement, nepotism, and poor execution of developmental works surfacing. These issues, raised over two years ago by Thakur Randhir Singh—now the local MLA—are finally gaining momentum as he rigorously pursues the case in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.

The controversies came to light during the “My Town My Pride 2.0” (MTMP) programme held in December 2022, where Singh, supported by a deputation of locals, highlighted significant anomalies in projects under various government schemes. The visiting officer of MTMP, the Director General of Floriculture, Parks, and Gardens, acknowledged the allegations and escalated them to the Director of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Jammu, urging immediate action.

Misuse of Funds and Nepotism

The deputation led by MLA Randhir Singh submitted a memorandum detailing the misappropriation of funds under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). It alleged that houses constructed under the scheme were not in compliance with guidelines, with funds being diverted to non-eligible beneficiaries. The memorandum accused MC Kalakote officials of promoting nepotism and sidelining deserving individuals. 

Further, a lighting project at Kalakote Bus Stand, completed at a cost of Rs. 33 lakh, became non-functional within six months due to the use of substandard materials. “Instead of prioritizing quality and purpose, officials chose to line their pockets,” the deputation alleged.

Fake Construction, and Wasted Public Money in Kalakote

The park project near PWD Dak Bungalow in Kalakote, sanctioned by the Floriculture Department in 2017, has become a glaring symbol of corruption and inefficiency. Despite an allocation of 21 kanals of land, only 10 shops have been constructed in over five years, leaving the project incomplete and raising serious questions about the utilization of funds.

In a shocking scam, the Municipal Committee (MC) Kalakote is accused of “constructing” an already existing park outside the Thermal Plant gate by merely face-lifting it. This fraudulent activity, allegedly siphoned off lakhs of rupees, inflicting significant losses on the state exchequer.

Another scandal involves the construction of a footpath along the Kalakote-Rajouri Highway, worth nearly one crore rupees, a useless investment by the committee. Locals claim the project was a colossal waste of public money, with no tangible benefits for the community. Adding to these revelations, multiple other scandals are believed to be lurking under the surface, awaiting investigation to expose the full extent of corruption in the MC Kalakote. Locals have accused the committee of deliberately delaying projects and depriving the community of much-needed recreational and developmental infrastructure.

Complaints Ignored

Despite these allegations being brought to the attention of authorities in 2022, no substantial action has been taken. The visiting officer of MTMP documented the complaints in an official letter addressed to the Director ULBs, Jammu, requesting an action-taken report. However, bureaucratic apathy has stalled any progress, leaving locals disillusioned.

MLA Randhir Singh Leads the Fight

Randhir Singh, who has been at the forefront of the fight against corruption, has now brought the issue to the Assembly. He has vowed to expose the “black sheep” within MC Kalakote and ensure accountability. “The staff of MC Kalakote must be held responsible for derailing development and looting public resources. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) should investigate the matter thoroughly,” Singh said. 

Public Outcry and Demand for Action Residents of Kalakote are demanding immediate intervention by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to initiate a high-level probe. “The scandals in MC Kalakote have cost the public dearly. We urge the government to take strict action against those involved,” said a local activist. As MLA Randhir Singh continues his efforts to seek justice, the corruption allegations have brought MC Kalakote under intense scrutiny. The coming weeks may witness a turning point, with hopes that authorities will finally act to unearth the truth and restore public trust.

In a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a case to probe alleged irregularities in the recruitment process for Fireman and Fireman Driver posts in the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Department. The action follows a detailed inquiry committee report submitted to the General Administration Department (GAD) and a subsequent directive to the ACB for a criminal investigation. 

The controversy dates back to 2013, when an advertisement was issued for various posts, including Firemen and Drivers, under Advertisement Notice No. 01 of 2013. The initial recruitment process was marred by discrepancies, leading to its cancellation in 2016 via Government Order No. 381-Home. 

The process was revived in 2018 under the directive of the J&K High Court, with instructions to engage a Transparent Recruitment Process (TRP) agency through an open bidding system. Hyderabad-based M/s Timing Technologies India Pvt. Ltd was selected but was replaced in 2019 following allegations of irregularities, including mass copying during the written examination. 

A fresh tendering process in 2020 saw six TRP agencies vying for the contract. M/s UMC Technology Pvt. Ltd Kolkata emerged as the lowest bidder (L-1) at a quoted rate of ₹107.50 per candidate. However, the work was controversially awarded to the second-lowest bidder (L-2), M/s LMES IT LLP Jammu, at a higher rate of ₹179 per candidate, bypassing L-1 without justification.

The investigation has unearthed numerous irregularities, including: 

Favoritism in Awarding the Contract

– The contract was awarded to L-2, a newly established firm with no proven experience, in violation of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines, which mandate negotiations exclusively with L-1 bidders or re-tendering if L-1 backs out. 

– The main partner of L-2, Maharaj Krishan Wali, had previously been associated with the discredited L-1 agency of the earlier process, M/s Timing Technologies. 

Manipulation of the Selection Process

– Question papers were reportedly beyond the comprehension of candidates qualified up to the 8th standard, the minimum educational requirement. 

– A manual review of answer sheets revealed glaring discrepancies. Candidates scoring as low as 11, 17, and 24 marks were shown as securing 90 marks in the final list. 

– Multiple instances of nepotism, including the selection of relatives of department officials and five real brothers from Budgam district, were identified. 

Fake and Fabricated Records

A total of 109 candidates who scored below the cutoff marks were fraudulently shown as qualified in the final selection list. 

Legal Action and Offences

The ACB has registered FIR No. 01/2025 under sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act (amended in 2018) and sections 120-B, 420, 467, 468, and 471 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The FIR implicates members of the Departmental Recruitment Board (DRB), Technical Committee, officers of the F&ES Department, L-2 bidder M/s LMES IT LLP, and other beneficiaries. 

Protests by Aspirants

Even before the registration of the case, aspirants had raised concerns over the alleged malpractices, staging protests and demanding transparency. Smelling irregularities in the process, they called for a thorough investigation, citing the glaring anomalies in the selection list. 

The Way Forward

The ACB has assured a comprehensive investigation into the matter. With significant evidence pointing to large-scale manipulation and favoritism, this case is poised to test the administration’s commitment to transparency and justice. 

For the hundreds of aspirants affected by these irregularities, the ACB’s intervention brings hope for accountability and the possibility of rectifying the injustices committed. The investigation continues. 

In a dramatic turn of events surrounding the agitation against the proposed ropeway project by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Shivani Jamwal the wife of detained leader Bhupinder Singh Jamwal has issued a fiery ultimatum.

Expressing deep resentment against local leadership for their indifference, she threatened self-immolation along with the wives of other detained leaders if her husband’s plight and demands of the protesting locals continue to be ignored. 

Speaking to media persons after meeting her husband in jail, the anguished wife minced no words in condemning the “apathy and political opportunism” of local leaders. “My husband has been on a hunger strike for the people of Katra, yet his name doesn’t even appear in the newspapers,” she said, her voice heavy with both anger and sorrow.

She accused local leaders of abandoning the cause and those spearheading it. “Those who give grand speeches to the public have not even bothered to check on my husband or the other detainees. While these leaders are enjoying langars and parading in fine attire, my husband and two others—Sohan Singh and Bhanu—are languishing in jail, surviving on minimal liquid intake. Even water is becoming unbearable for their weakened bodies.”

Tears streaming down her face, she added, “My husband, once a man of strong physique, now requires two attendants to care for him. His health is deteriorating rapidly, and no leader has shown the courage to stand by us. Their politics is self-serving, and it is the poor who pay the price.”

The distressed wife issued a heartfelt plea to the people of Katra. “Why are you silent? This is not just my fight or my husband’s fight—this is for all of us. Will you remain mute spectators while the leadership betrays our cause?”

She further warned of grave consequences if no action is taken by the administration, including the Lieutenant Governor, SDM, and CEO. “If anything happens to my husband, who is already battling fatal diabetes, I will set myself on fire. Right now, I am in my ‘Chandi roop’ (fiery incarnation). This indifference will not be tolerated anymore.”

Targeting local political leaders, including the MLA, she lamented their absence at this crucial juncture. “Not even a phone call, not even a visit. Show me the proof that you care. My question is simple—where is the MLA when my husband and others are risking their lives for Katra’s future?” According to her, one protestor claimed that some leaders have even belittled the movement, dismissing the detained youths as “mad.” She also alleged that the same leaders who are now silent rode to victory on the “Modi wave” and have abandoned the very people who put them in power.

The health of the three detainees—Bhupinder Singh Jamwal, Sohan Singh, and Bhanu—has reportedly deteriorated significantly. Jamwal, who is diabetic, is said to be in critical condition, with severe weight loss and inability to consume even water.

As tensions escalate, the wife of Bhupinder Singh Jamwal announced plans to intensify the agitation, warning that the indifferent attitude of both the administration and local leadership will no longer be tolerated.  The situation in Katra remains volatile, with growing public frustration over the perceived lack of support for those protesting against the contentious ropeway project. The coming days will reveal whether the administration and local leaders step up to address these grievances or if the agitation spirals further out of control.

The Shrine Board’s ropeway project has already sparked significant debate, with locals voicing concerns about its potential impact on the town’s ecosystem, livelihood, and spiritual sanctity. The plight of the detainees and their families now adds another layer of urgency to the unfolding crisis. The ball is firmly in the court of the administration and political leadership as Katra braces for what could be a decisive moment in its ongoing struggle.

Here’s the detailed interview, compiled exclusively by The Hidden News, based on an interaction conducted by a local news channel.

MLA Katra Spills the Beans: “Administration Would Not Release Protesters If I Intervened”

“I will abide by whatever decision the Sangharsh Samiti takes,” says MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi constituency, Baldev Sharma.

On the Detained Protesters

When questioned about his statement during the protests, where he threatened to go on a hunger strike if the detained youth were not released within 24 hours, Sharma confirmed the claim. 

“I categorically told the protesters that if the administration failed to release the detained youths, I would go on a hunger strike. These youths were booked under Sections 126 and 176. I urged the administration to release them as their detention only escalated tensions,” he stated. 

He added, “I received information later that night that if I intervened, the administration would be less likely to release the protesters. This influenced my decision not to visit the protest site immediately. However, I assured the people that I remain committed to their cause.”

On His Support for the Locals

Sharma dismissed any doubts about his commitment to Katra’s residents, stating, “Politics aside, I stand shoulder to shoulder with my people. The ropeway project threatens the livelihoods of many, including porters and palanquin bearers who depend on pilgrimage-related activities. As their elected representative, I am duty-bound to prioritize their interests.”

Assurances from the Government

The MLA also addressed concerns regarding the expressway alignment. “The central government has assured us that the expressway will not pass through Tarakote, respecting the people’s demand. This assurance reflects the government’s understanding of the local sentiments,” he noted. 

On Public Criticism and Alleged Delays

Responding to allegations of joining the protest late, Sharma clarified, “I wasn’t absent; I was strategizing behind the scenes. I appreciate the relentless efforts of members like Kuldeep Dubey, DDC Suresh Singh Saraf, and Tarun Chugh, who went to Delhi for deliberations. Their hard work ensured that our concerns reached the highest levels of decision-making.”

When asked about protests against him, Sharma said, “It’s the voters’ right to express their opinions. Where there is applause, there can also be criticism. But there is no resentment; we are united for this cause.”

Stand on the Ropeway Project

Sharma reiterated his opposition to the proposed ropeway project, firmly aligning with the Sangharsh Samiti and the people of Katra. “My stand is clear—I oppose the project as it jeopardizes the livelihoods of the locals. I will accept and support whatever decision the Samiti takes in this matter.”

Conclusion In his closing remarks, Sharma expressed gratitude to the Deputy Chief Minister for visiting Katra and addressing the people’s grievances. “His visit reassured us that our voices are being heard,” he said. MLA’s candid responses aim to bridge the gap between him and the protesting masses, underscoring his commitment to resolving the issue amicably while safeguarding the interests of Katra’s people.

In a surprising turn of events, the ongoing agitation against the proposed ropeway project in Katra, spearheaded by the Katra Sangarsh Samiti, witnessed the participation of BJP MLA Baldev Sharma, signaling cracks within the BJP’s approach to the issue. The project, meant to enhance connectivity to the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, has drawn widespread ire from locals, who see it as a threat to the town’s heritage and ecology.

The agitation has garnered support from all major opposition parties, including the Congress, further intensifying the pressure on the BJP-led administration. Leaders across the political spectrum have joined hands with the Katra Sangarsh Samiti, amplifying public discontent and painting the project as a misstep by the administration.

Amidst escalating tensions, MLA Baldev Sharma surprised many by joining the protesters at the demonstration site, marking his first public stance against the project. Addressing the crowd, Sharma expressed gratitude to the Sangarsh Samiti for their united front and commended the younger protesters for their resilience.

“Katra has shown unparalleled unity,” he declared to chants of “Katra Ekta Zindabad.” Sharma condemned the filing of FIRs and arrests of protesters, labeling the actions as unjust and calling for their immediate release. “I stand with you in this hour for shelving the ropeway project,” he assured the demonstrators, though he refrained from committing to a written promise, stating it would not resolve the issue comprehensively.

Sharma’s participation in the protests underscores a possible rift within the BJP. He revealed that the Home Minister had taken note of the controversy and summoned senior BJP leaders, including party president Sat Pal Sharma and Tarun Chugh, to address the crisis. This intervention highlights the political sensitivity of the project and its potential fallout in the region. “We have conveyed to the Home Minister that the ropeway route should be reconsidered, ensuring it does not disrupt the sanctity of Katra,” Sharma stated, reiterating his solidarity with the protesters.

Despite Sharma’s assurances, the Sangarsh Samiti remains steadfast in its demand for a written commitment to scrap the project. Protesters chanted slogans in support of the Samiti, vowing to continue their agitation until their demands are met. With the opposition united and BJP leaders facing mounting pressure, the controversy over the ropeway project has turned into a litmus test for the ruling party’s ability to balance development with public sentiment.

As the agitation continues to gain momentum, Sharma’s participation may signal a shift in the BJP’s approach, but whether it will suffice to quell the unrest remains to be seen. For now, Katra stands as a symbol of resistance, with its residents determined to safeguard their heritage against what they perceive as an ill-conceived development project.

In a move that has sparked a much-needed discourse on healthcare accountability, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo conducted a surprise visit to the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu. Her inspection revealed a shocking state of affairs, including the absence of doctors in the emergency ward and the dilapidated condition of the hospital premises. 

Speaking to media persons after her visit, Itoo expressed deep anger and frustration over the non-availability of doctors in the emergency wing. “It is unacceptable that doctors assigned to the emergency ward are absent. Thousands of patients from rural areas depend on this hospital for specialized treatment, and such negligence leaves them helpless in their time of need,” the minister said. 

Responding to queries about potential action against the absent medical staff, Itoo assured that strict measures would be taken. “Those doctors listed on the duty roster but found absent will face consequences. This kind of dereliction of duty cannot be tolerated in an institution meant to save lives,” she stated firmly.

The minister also took strong note of the pitiable state of the hospital. Garbage piles, broken infrastructure, and unhygienic conditions drew her ire. “Cleanliness in a hospital is of paramount importance, especially for the recovery and safety of patients. The current state of the hospital is disgraceful and must be rectified immediately,” she said.

When asked about the reasons behind the deteriorated infrastructure, the Principal of GMC Jammu attributed it to ongoing construction work. However, the explanation did little to pacify the minister, who stressed the importance of maintaining basic hygiene and functional standards even during renovations.

Itoo’s visit also highlighted long-standing issues of administrative inefficiency. The in-charge of the emergency department, Dr. Bharat Bhushan, has been holding the position for nearly a decade, originally brought on deputation by a former health minister. Critics argue that the absence of checks and balances has allowed such lapses to fester. 

sources indicate that the emergency wing’s failings is responsibility primarily falls on the Medical Superintendent and departmental in-charge.

Sakina Itoo’s visit underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the health sector. Regular inspections could act as a deterrent against negligence and foster a culture of responsibility among medical staff.

“Healthcare is a lifeline for the common people, and this government is committed to ensuring better services,” Itoo said, emphasizing her determination to bring about tangible change in Jammu’s healthcare system.

Patients and their families hope that this proactive approach by the health minister will lead to lasting reforms in GMC Jammu and other government hospitals across the region. As the government promises better healthcare services, the public awaits action that matches these assurances.

Mohd Irfan

The agitation led by the Katra Sangarsha Committee against the controversial ropeway project continues to gain momentum, with political leaders and local activists voicing strong opposition to what they term as a “threat to local livelihoods and religious sentiments.”

Addressing the media at the protest site, Congress leader Jai Sidh Bhalla launched a scathing attack on the government and the ruling party’s representatives. “This contentious issue could have been resolved had the Member of Parliament from the ruling party or the Union Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office stepped in. Their silence reflects their disregard for the sentiments of Katra’s people,” Bhalla said.

Bhalla emphasized that the proposed ropeway would devastate the livelihoods of locals, particularly porters who ferry pilgrims to the shrine. “This project is not just a policy matter; it’s a direct assault on the very survival of hundreds of families who rely on this work. Roads, railways, and now this ropeway—all these developments aim to shut down local businesses,” he lamented.

He further questioned the government’s narrative of aiding the disabled through the project. “If electric cars are already in operation, how many differently-abled individuals actually use them? The ropeway is nothing but a pretext to squeeze locals out of their rightful share of the economy,” he said.

BJP Leader Joins Protest, Warns Against Religious Insensitivity

Adding weight to the protest, BJP leader, Ritu Thakur who identified herself as both a social activist and a party member, expressed solidarity with the aggrieved locals. “We will not allow anyone to hurt our religious sentiments. The shrine board and those seeking commissions from this project should beware—they will face divine retribution,” she asserted.

She recalled the year 1986 when the Shrine Board took control, alleging that similar moves in the past have always come at the expense of the locals’ welfare. “This is not just about a ropeway. It’s about preserving the sanctity of our religious traditions and ensuring that our people are not displaced under the guise of development.”

High Costs and Exorbitant Charges Add Fuel to Fire

Bhalla also raised concerns about the alleged exploitative practices of the Shrine Board, citing exorbitant charges levied on pilgrims. “A single room in Katra is charged at Rs 4,000 when its actual rate is Rs 500. This kind of exploitation is unacceptable,” he said. He went on to accuse the Shrine Board of overcharging pilgrims for services and adding to their financial burden.

The BJP leader echoed these concerns, questioning the feasibility of the ropeway for differently-abled individuals. “With a monthly pension of Rs 1,000, how can these individuals afford Rs 4,200 for a ticket? This project is clearly not for the benefit of the needy,” she remarked.

Call for Unity Against Ropeway Project

Both leaders called for unity among the people of Katra, urging them to resist the ropeway project at all costs. “This is not a political issue but a fight to protect the livelihoods of locals and preserve the sanctity of this holy town. The people of Katra will decide what’s best for them, not bureaucrats or political leaders sitting in distant offices,” Bhalla declared. As the protest intensifies, the government faces mounting pressure to address the grievances of the people and reconsider the project that many believe undermines the socio-economic fabric of Katra.

In the midst of discussions on social media, a heartwarming story about the humility of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s wife, Gursharan Kaur, is making rounds on Twitter. The anecdote highlights her simplicity and grace, leaving netizens deeply moved.

According to the post, during a banquet organized in honor of the then-Prime Minister, a modestly dressed woman quietly sat in a corner enjoying her meal. Her unassuming presence caught the attention of the wives of senior officials attending the lavish event. Intrigued by her simplicity, some of them approached her to inquire about her identity. 

With a calm demeanor, the woman replied, “My husband works here.” This only heightened their curiosity, as they speculated that she might be the wife of a junior staff member. One of the women, adopting a stern tone, pressed further, asking, “Tell us clearly, what position does your husband hold?” 

The woman, maintaining her composed and humble tone, answered, “He works as the Prime Minister.” 

Stunned by the revelation, the officials’ wives scrambled to serve her, competing to bring her another piece of bread. However, Gursharan Kaur, true to her nature, politely declined their help and proceeded to get her food herself, thanking them graciously.

This anecdote has resonated widely online, with users praising Gursharan Kaur’s humility and grace. It serves as a reminder of the rare quality of simplicity, even at the pinnacle of power, embodied by the former Prime Minister and his family. The story of Gursharan Kaur’s effortless humility has become an inspiration, showing that true greatness often lies in the quiet strength of modesty and self-reliance.

In a somber moment for the nation, the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at the age of 92 has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from across political and ideological lines. Leaders took to X (formerly Twitter) to honor the statesman, economist, and visionary who left an indelible mark on India’s political and economic landscape.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, lauding Singh’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected economist and Prime Minister. “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi posted on X. 

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed personal grief, calling Singh his mentor and guide. “Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” Gandhi wrote.

Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, reflected on his interactions with Singh, describing him as a “giant among pygmies.” He tweeted, “Very sorry to hear about the demise of former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh. He was an intellectual giant, an accomplished economist, but above all, he was a thorough gentleman. India has lost a great son with his passing. Rest in peace, sir.”

Adding a deeply personal recollection, former IPS officer and current UP Minister Asim Arun shared his experiences as Singh’s bodyguard. “Dr. Manmohan Singh had only one personal car—a Maruti 800—parked behind the gleaming black BMW at the Prime Minister’s residence. He always looked at it longingly, reaffirming his belief: ‘I am a middle-class man, and it is my duty to care for the common man.’” Arun’s tribute highlighted Singh’s humility even in the corridors of power.

Hurriyat Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq acknowledged Singh’s sincere efforts toward dialogue and peace in Kashmir. “He believed in open borders and lasting peace with neighbors and engaged with us in Hurriyat with an open mind. A statesman committed to harmony and resolution,” Farooq posted, adding that Singh’s efforts for Kashmir will remain a cherished legacy.

From beyond India’s borders, World leaders are sending condolence messages in honor of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai expressed his condolences, calling Singh “an unwavering ally and friend to the people of Afghanistan.” Karzai posted, “India has lost one of its most illustrious sons. I profoundly mourn his passing and extend my deepest condolences to his family, the government, and the people of India.”

Dr. Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leaves behind a legacy of economic reforms, social policies, and a steadfast belief in dialogue and peace. As tributes continue to pour in, his life stands as a testament to humility, intellect, and dedication to the nation.

Tensions flared on Thursday morning at Sadda Broh village during the foundation stone-laying ceremony of a bridge set to connect the Kalakote and Budhal constituencies.
Senior BJP leader and MLA Kalakote, Randhir Singh, along with his supporters, clashed with police and National Conference (NC) workers after being allegedly barred from attending the event.

The event, presided over by Deputy Chief Minister (DyCM) Surinder Choudhary and MLA Budhal, Javaid Iqbal, turned chaotic as Singh and his supporters arrived at the site, demanding entry to the venue. Singh, visibly agitated, accused the administration of deliberately excluding him from the ceremony. 

Speaking to the media at the site, Singh alleged, “My name was omitted from the guest list at the behest of the DyCM. This is nothing but a political conspiracy to sideline me.” The BJP MLA accused the DyCM of undermining his position, stating, “He (DyCM) should know the protocol. As the MLA of this constituency, I should have been a key participant in this event.”

Flanked by several dozen BJP workers, Singh lashed out at the NC-led government, claiming, “The Omar Abdullah-led government has repeatedly failed to bring development to this region. All ongoing projects, including this bridge, are gifts from the Modi Government.”

Singh further alleged procedural lapses in the project, stating, “The department laid the foundation stone without completing the necessary paperwork. This is an insult to the people of Kalakote.”

As Singh and his supporters attempted to storm the venue, they were met with heavy police resistance. Heated arguments quickly escalated into physical scuffles, with BJP workers clashing with both security personnel and NC supporters present at the site. Eyewitnesses reported slogans being chanted against the DyCM and NC leadership, adding to the charged atmosphere.

Singh did not mince words, calling the DyCM a “Dalal, Dalla” (broker) and questioning his credibility. “Despite being a member of the Legislative Council in the past and now the DyCM, he has no respect for protocol,” Singh said. The police eventually managed to restore order, but the incident has left political temperatures soaring in the region. 

Responding to the accusations, DyCM Surinder Choudhary dismissed Singh’s allegations as baseless. “This is not about politics; it’s about development. The BJP MLA is trying to divert attention from real issues with theatrics,” said an official attended the function. The scuffle has drawn sharp reactions from political circles, with BJP leaders rallying behind Singh and NC leaders defending the administration’s actions.