PDP MLA Wahid-ur-Rehman Para Questions Implementation of SASCI Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir
On February 9th, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Wahid-ur-Rehman Para raised concerns about the implementation of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme in Jammu and Kashmir. He demanded the formation of a House committee to assess the long-term implications of the scheme for the region.
During his address in the Assembly, Para expressed apprehensions about the loan component of the SASCI scheme and its potential financial impact on the Union Territory. He urged the government to provide clarity on the safety and security of the loans being raised.
Accusing the Omar Abdullah-led government of deflecting attention and disrupting proceedings instead of addressing his concerns, Para emphasized the importance of forming a House committee to scrutinize the SASCI scheme.
Speaking to reporters outside the assembly, Para reiterated his call for a thorough examination of the scheme under the supervision of Tariq Hameed Karra Sahib, proposing him as the chairman of the House committee. He emphasized the need to evaluate whether the SASCI loan posed any risks to Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the issue of unspent funds, Para questioned the necessity of acquiring new loans when a significant portion of allocated funds remained unused. He pointed out that various funds, including those from the Central Road Fund (CRF), had not been fully utilized, with nearly Rs 1 lakh crore remaining unspent.
Para criticized the SASCI scheme as a loan sourced from the market by the central government, raising concerns about the implications of burdening Jammu and Kashmir with additional debt. He questioned the decision-making process behind implementing the scheme without proper consultation.
Expressing apprehensions about the potential privatization of resources and infrastructure in the region, Para warned that the SASCI scheme could jeopardize the control over essential assets such as land and water resources in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the issue of development expenditure, Para highlighted the low utilization of the total budget allocated, with a significant portion being spent on salaries rather than capital and infrastructure projects. He questioned the rationale behind seeking new loans from the market when existing funds remained underutilized.
Emphasizing the concerns of the people in Jammu and Kashmir regarding the alleged privatization of public assets, Para underscored the importance of safeguarding the region’s resources and ensuring community control over vital resources.
