Sat Mar 08 16:34:42 UTC 2025: ## J&K Assembly Debates Land Allotment to Former Sri Lankan Cricketer and New Townships

**Srinagar, March 8, 2025** – The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed heated debate today over the allocation of land to a former Sri Lankan cricketer and the development of new townships in the region. Opposition lawmakers from the CPI(M) and PDP questioned the ruling National Conference government’s transparency and adherence to due process in both matters.

CPI(M) legislator M.Y. Tarigami highlighted the allotment of evacuee land to the unnamed cricketer without any payment, questioning the fairness and legality of the process. He further criticized the government’s eviction notices to farmers in Dooru who had been granted land under the Grow More Food scheme before the 1990s. Congress MLA Ghulam Ahmed Mir echoed these concerns.

While Rural Development Minister Javed Dar acknowledged a lack of information regarding the land allotment to the cricketer, he promised an investigation. Reports indicate that Muttiah Muralitharan’s Ceylon Beverages received 206 kanals of land in Kathua for a soft drinks plant during the previous Lieutenant Governor’s administration.

PDP leader Waheed-ur-Rehmaan Parra raised concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the proposed townships, questioning whether they were designed to benefit the indigenous population or to accommodate outsiders, and potentially leading to demographic changes. He also emphasized the need for a thorough environmental assessment given recent climate change impacts.

Minister Sakina Itoo, speaking on behalf of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, defended the township projects, stating that they aim to regulate unplanned urban expansion and address housing needs. She confirmed that 1298.28 kanals of land have been identified for nine townships across various districts, adding that ecological concerns will be considered during construction. However, the opposition remains unconvinced, demanding further clarification and accountability from the government.

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