||Black and White Digital News ||

||October 18,2024 ||

JAMMU : The recent interview notice issued by the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu , has stirred controversy and raised concerns over unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir. The notification lists six candidates for interviews scheduled on 22 October 2024 for the post of Cluster Development Executive and Textile Designer in the Basohli Pashmina Cluster, Kathua. What has fueled debate is the fact that two candidates shortlisted for the positions belong to other states—Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

This hiring process has triggered discontent among locals, given the high unemployment rates in Jammu and Kashmir. Residents are questioning why opportunities meant for the region’s youth are being extended to outsiders. Political reactions have been notably muted, with BJP leaders from Jammu maintaining silence, despite their otherwise vocal stance on issues concerning local interests. The Congress party, too, has failed to respond, raising concerns about its role as an opposition party.

Post-Article 370 Changes and Local Sentiments:

Since the abrogation of Article 370, the central government promised development and employment opportunities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. However, locals feel that the promises remain unfulfilled, with the entry of candidates from other states into local government and public-sector roles adding to their disillusionment. Many express frustration that neither the BJP government nor the opposition is addressing public concerns.

Broader Governance Issues: Corruption, Drugs, and Public Discontent:

The discontent is not limited to employment. Several other issues are plaguing the region:

Installation of smart meters has faced public backlash, with no resolution in sight.

Revenue corruption is reportedly at its peak.

Mining mafias are said to be operating unchecked, further eroding public trust in governance.

Drug addiction is becoming a severe issue among the youth, with cases of overdose deaths increasing.

The proliferation of wine shops has led to concerns about the erosion of social values.

Public Anger and Political Inaction :

A ground-level assessment reveals growing anger among residents, who accuse political leaders of making false promises. While Jammu becomes a hub for issues like corruption and substance abuse, politicians— both from the ruling party and the

oppositionare perceived as being disconnected from public issues.

The silence from local political leaders on the outsourcing of jobs to candidates from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh reflects a broader disengagement from the pressing concerns of the region. Many residents are demanding accountability and are questioning the sincerity of the leadership, which they say is more focused on personal interests than public welfare.

The controversy over employment, combined with other governance failures, points to a widening gap between the promises of development and the reality on the ground. As people grow increasingly disillusioned, there is a mounting call for opposition party like BJP to step up and address the real issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir. Without meaningful action, the public’s frustration may only deepen, eroding trust in the political establishment.

Sajad Gani Lone

Tariq Hameed Karra