Assures Swift Damage Assessment, Pushes for Centre-Backed Relief Package
Diplomat Correspondent
Karnah, (DD)Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan represents the genuine will of people living along the Line of Control, not the views of television anchors based in distant cities.
During a visit to shelling-affected villages in the Karnah sector of Kupwara district, he stressed that peace remains the top priority for border residents. “Those who live amid constant fear of shelling value the ceasefire. It’s not for anchors sitting in Noida or Mumbai to decide what’s best for them,” he stated.
The Chief Minister said while there was no loss of life in the recent shelling incidents, property damage has been significant. “A thorough assessment is being carried out and should be completed by tomorrow. Compensation will be provided accordingly,” he assured.
He pointed out that although community bunkers were constructed years ago, they are no longer adequate. “People are now demanding individual bunkers. We will formulate a new scheme specifically for those living near the LoC and international border,” he said, adding that the issue would be taken up with the central government.
On compensation, he highlighted the limitations of current norms under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), particularly for shopkeepers and traders. “A special package is needed—not just for Karnah, but for other affected areas like Uri, Rajouri, and Poonch as well,” he said.(DD)