J&K Assembly Speaker Holds Public Outreach Camp in Kanidajan, Assures Accelerated Development and Protection Under Forest Rights Act

BUDGAM, AUGUST 01, 2026 — Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather held a public outreach camp in Kanidajan village, within the Charar-i-Sharief constituency, to evaluate local infrastructure demands and address public grievances.

During the session, residents highlighted key concerns, particularly regarding eviction notices issued by the Forest Department and restrictions placed on agricultural lands that families have cultivated for generations. Addressing the gathering, Rather assured locals that no actions violating the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, would be permitted. He emphasized that the legitimate rights of eligible beneficiaries will be fully protected, stating that government officials must strictly adhere to statutory guidelines without causing undue harassment, while also warning against using the law as a pretext for fresh encroachments.

Villagers also submitted demands for upgraded healthcare, veterinary facilities, drinking water infrastructure, power grid enhancements, and the elevation of the local high school to a higher secondary level. Responding to the infrastructure requests, Rather outlined several completed and upcoming road connectivity projects in the area. Key announcements included the upcoming 9-kilometer Kanidajan–Nowgam road macadamization at an estimated cost of ₹2 crore, alongside funded works for the Nowgam–Nilnag, Leden–Dobha, Kanidajan–Darwan, and Kanidajan–Pehlipora road links. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development, Rather assured residents that all genuine demands would be addressed in a phased manner.