Srinagar: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday visited the Rawathpora area of Baghat Burzalla in Srinagar to assure local residents that the playground land will be protected from takeover by the government for its allotment to some government departments. The Government recently took over a playground in Baghat Barzulla to allocate it to certain government departments.
The land had been under a school’s possession for nearly five decades and served as a playground for the youth from neighboring areas. When local residents brought this issue to the attention of Bukhari, he strongly opposed the government’s takeover of the land.
He again visited the site and assured residents that the land would be safeguarded from further encroachment. He said, “I took up this issue at the highest level in the government, and I have been assured that the land will not be taken over. In case you see any attempt to take over or construct on this land, you can immediately bring it to my notice. The doors of my house are always open for you. We will never allow the government to snatch this land from the local youth. They use it as a playground. This is the only land in the entire area that is being used for healthy and constructive activities by hundreds of our youngsters. I have strongly raised this issue with the government at the highest level and have received assurance for the protection of this piece of land.”
He added, “We need further infrastructure in terms of playgrounds and buildings for sports activities here; otherwise, our youngsters are vulnerable to the prevailing drug menace, violence, and other negative influences.” Bukhari urged the youth to remain engaged in positive activities and focus on building their careers. He assured them that their issues and concerns would be brought to the concerned authorities to ensure their redressal. He said, “Youngsters are our future, and they must play a constructive role in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir. I assure you that we will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the problems and issues you are facing are fully addressed. My only request is that you remain dedicated to building your careers and stay actively involved in positive and constructive pursuits.” On this occasion, the local residents applauded Bukhari for personal intervention and his dedicated efforts to safeguard the playground from government takeover.
