Tue Sep 02 20:58:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article based on it:

**Summary:**

Political parties in Jammu & Kashmir are protesting the decision to build a Police Martyrs’ building on a 70-year-old playground in Srinagar. Leaders from the PDP and JKAP argue that the land is vital for the youth of the area, especially given issues of unemployment, drug abuse, and depression. They are appealing to government officials to intervene and preserve the playground for recreational activities.

**News Article:**

**Srinagar Playground Grab Sparks Outrage Among Political Parties**

**Srinagar, September 3, 2025:** A plan to construct a Police Martyrs’ building on a long-standing playground in the Baghat Barzulla area of Srinagar has ignited a controversy, drawing strong opposition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the J&K Apni Party (JKAP). The move comes just a day after the Prime Minister lauded the role of Kashmiri youth in sports.

PDP leader and Pulwama MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra criticized the decision, stating that the 70-year-old playground is a vital recreational space for local youth. “While we salute the sacrifices of the police, such a building can be raised elsewhere,” he said, highlighting the critical need for spaces and stadiums in Srinagar, especially with a significant percentage of youth struggling with unemployment, drugs, and depression. Parra has appealed to the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, and Director General of Police to intervene and preserve the playground.

JKAP president Syed Altaf Bukhari echoed these concerns, describing the government’s action as “deeply concerning.” He emphasized the disappointment among the local community, noting that the land has served as a playground for youth from multiple surrounding localities for decades. Bukhari specifically appealed to Chief Minister Abdullah to protect the land for the youth’s sporting activities. He stressed the importance of providing adequate recreational facilities to combat the growing problem of drug abuse among young people in Srinagar, suggesting it is essential for healthier, more constructive pursuits.

Both parties emphasized that their opposition transcends political affiliations and is solely driven by the public interest and the well-being of the youth in the region. The debate highlights the ongoing need for adequate recreational spaces and opportunities for young people in Kashmir.

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