JAMMU: J&K BJP President and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma, in presence of BJP National General Secretary, J&K Prabhari and Member of Parliament Tarun Chugh, met Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi and strongly projected the long-pending issues affecting the people living along the International Border.
A few days earlier, a deputation of border residents led by J&K BJP Kisan Morcha President Rakesh Pant had called on Sat Sharma and highlighted several unresolved issues concerning the border population. The delegation had sought permanent ownership rights for the refugees of 1965 and 1971, who have been residing in border areas for decades but continue to face uncertainty over their land and property rights. They had also demanded fair and adequate compensation for agricultural land acquired by the Border Security Force for the construction of border roads, fencing, bunkers and other strategic defense infrastructure, which has adversely impacted the livelihood of numerous farming families.
The deputation had further urged that a joint team of senior officers from the Revenue Department and Defense authorities be deputed to the affected villages to conduct a comprehensive on-ground assessment so that practical and time-bound solutions could be formulated for the benefit of the border residents.
Taking forward these concerns, Sat Sharma placed all the demands before the defense minister and emphasized that the people living on the International Border have always stood as the nation's first line of resilience, making immense sacrifices for the country's security. He said these patriotic families deserve justice, dignity, security and sustained developmental support, and requested the Union Government to ensure early redressal of their genuine issues.
Tarun Chugh said the Narendra Modi-led government has consistently demonstrated its commitment towards the welfare and security of border residents and remains sensitive to their aspirations. He expressed confidence that every genuine issue concerning these patriotic citizens would receive due attention from the Government.
Rajnath Singh gave a patient hearing to the issues raised during the meeting and stated that the concerns of the border residents would be examined seriously. He said the Government of India remains committed to safeguarding both national security and the welfare of citizens living in border areas, and appropriate decisions would be taken in the larger public interest after due consideration.
