Dy CM Surinder visits Shelling Victim’s Family in Khari Chinore, assures full support
Rattan Lal urges Centre to announce special package for shelling victims
Jammu, May 17: Dy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, accompanied by Provincial President J&K National Conference Adv. Rattan Lal Gupta, today visited Khari Chinore area of Jammu North Assembly Constituency to express condolences over the tragic death of Zakir Hussain, who was killed in a mortar shell attack from across the border during the recent IndiaPakistan conflict.
During the visit to the bereaved family, the Dy CM conveyed his heartfelt sympathies and shared their grief during this moment of profound loss.
Surinder Choudhary said, “The Omar Abdullah-led Government stands in solidarity with every citizen who has been affected by the ongoing cross-border shelling. Our administration is committed to providing every possible support to the affected families.”
He emphasized that the Omar government would ensure that proper compensation, relief, and rehabilitation are extended to victims and assured the people that safety measures are being strengthened along the border to prevent further loss of life and property.
Adv. Rattan Lal Gupta expressed resentment against the Central Government for maintaining a “criminal silence” over the plight of the people living along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC), who have been continuously facing the brunt of shelling.
Rattan Lal Gupta highlighted that the recent spate of hostilities has taken a heavy toll, especially in the border district of Poonch, where 13 civilians lost their lives and over 50 sustained serious injuries. “These are not just statistics—they are shattered families, broken homes, and traumatized communities,” he added.
The Provincial President lamented the absence of any concrete response or relief announcement from the Central Government, even after the passage of over a week. “The silence is deafening. What the border residents need now is not apathy, but empathy—and immediate action,” he stated.
The senior NC leader urged officials from the Revenue and Rural Development Departments to promptly conduct damage assessments and ensure that no genuine case is left out. He stressed the need for swift, transparent compensation disbursement as per norms.
The Provincial President reiterated the demand for a comprehensive special package from the Centre for the shelling victims, along with concrete steps for the safety and long-term welfare of the border population. “The National Conference under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will continue to be the voice of the people and fight for justice and adequate relief at every relevant forum,” he affirmed.
Among others present during the visit included Sheikh Bashir Ahmad, Pardeep Bali Provincial Secretaries Jammu, Rakesh Singh Raka, Dilshad Malik Central Vice Presidents, Subash Bhagat former corporator, Block President and other party functionaries.
