Baramulla, July 2: The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep anguish and strong resentment over the arbitrary and unjust shifting of multiple key posts from the Agriculture Department in District Baramulla to other districts. The party has termed this move as a direct attack on the administrative and functional capacity of one of Jammu and Kashmir’s largest and most agriculturally important districts.
In a press Statement District President of the Party Mohd Rafique Rather has said that
according to verified imputs at least 25 sanctioned posts—including Senior Assistants, Junior Assistants, Helpers, Orderlies, GCOs, PPOs, and other support staff—were shifted from the Agriculture Department’s District Head Office and subordinate offices during the financial year 2022–2024.
Rafique Rather said that
this controversial reshuffling was reportedly executed under the former Director of Agriculture, in collaboration with the former Chief Agriculture Officer Baramulla, and added that that the action was carried out to accommodate and adjust a few blue-eyed employees involving corrupt practices ignoring the legitimate needs and functioning of the department in Baramulla.
Rafique Rather, has strongly condemned the move, calling it a gross injustice to the people of Baramulla. “This deliberate act of administrative manipulation has paralyzed the functioning of the Agriculture Department in Baramulla. A district of such high agricultural output and public dependence cannot be left to suffer due to selfish internal adjustments,” he said.
He added, “Baramulla has long been recognized as a leading agricultural district in the region. Instead of being equipped with adequate staff and resources, it is being systematically deprived, which speaks volumes about the discriminatory policies being followed.”
The PDP leader demanded that all the posts shifted under the said arrangement be immediately restored to Baramulla. He further urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration and the Department of Agriculture to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure accountability of those responsible for this administrative injustice.
“The Government must put an end to such favoritism. Public institutions and services cannot be allowed to run at the whims of a few individuals. Equity, transparency, and fairness in administrative decisions are fundamental to good governance,” Rather asserted.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights of the people of Baramulla and stood in solidarity with the district’s farming community. The party has vowed to continue raising this issue at all appropriate forums until justice is delivered.
