Ramban, May 3: A public rally organised by the Sawalkote Joint Action Committee (SJAC) was halted twice by police in Ramban district on Sunday, leading to brief but peaceful protests before authorities allowed submission of a memorandum outlining key demands related to the proposed Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project.
The rally began from Dak Bungalow Ramban, drawing participation from hundreds of residents, daily wagers, youth groups, and civil society members. Protesters raised slogans demanding justice and greater clarity on the project, reflecting growing concern over its potential impact on local communities.
Police initially stopped the procession at the main gate, citing lack of formal permission. After nearly 20 minutes of discussions, the rally was allowed to proceed but was halted again shortly afterward, creating a tense yet non-violent standoff.
Organisers claimed that prior intimation had been given and no denial had been communicated by the administration.
Following the second blockade, authorities permitted SJAC representatives to submit a detailed memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister, Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, and the Deputy Commissioner of Ramban.
Addressing the gathering, SJAC President Advocate Fairoz Khan said that while residents were not opposed to development, they could not accept “uncertainty, injustice, or exclusion” from decisions affecting their land and livelihoods. He expressed concern over what he described as ambiguity surrounding the project, particularly reports of a proposed road diversion via Udhampur instead of Ramban, which he warned could marginalise the district.
He also raised questions about a possible shift in the project site, suggesting that such a move could result in submergence of local villages without corresponding benefits. Delays in tendering and lack of a defined timeline were also criticised.
Several other speakers, including legal advisor Muzaffar Lone and local residents, highlighted issues such as inadequate compensation, arbitrary land acquisition, and the absence of a comprehensive rehabilitation framework. Farmers whose land had been acquired years ago but remains unused voiced concerns over financial distress and loss of livelihood.
The memorandum submitted by SJAC outlines eight key demands, including: Immediate clarification on the proposed road diversion.A fixed timeline and tender schedule for the project.Compensation in accordance with the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.Reassessment or return of unused acquired land.A comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement policy.Employment preference for local residents.Wage security for affected families and environmental and social impact safeguards.
The committee warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to intensified democratic protests. Legal representatives also indicated that the group is prepared to explore legal options if necessary.
Despite the police interventions, the rally remained peaceful, with organisers repeatedly urging participants to maintain discipline. No incidents of violence or damage to public property were reported.
The SJAC has urged the administration to respond with transparency and within a reasonable timeframe. With widespread participation and visible unity among residents, the Sawalkote issue continues to gain momentum in Ramban.
