Asif Iqbal Naik
Kishtwar Jan 8, 2026: Political tensions have intensified in Kishtwar over the strategically important Rattle Hydroelectric Power Project, with the National Conference backing the Head of Project (HoP) even as the BJP and project management trade sharp accusations over alleged obstruction, security concerns and employment-related issues. The controversy has once again brought the Rattle project into focus due to its sensitive terror-linked background and its critical importance to Jammu and Kashmir’s power infrastructure.
NC Media Analyst Shahan Sajjad Kichloo, son of Rajya Sabha MP Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, has accused the Kishtwar district administration of selective inaction despite prohibitory orders issued by the District Magistrate to ensure smooth execution of power projects. He alleged that certain BJP leaders and workers are openly creating hurdles, issuing threats to project managements, contractors and construction agencies, and obstructing work on the ground despite the prohibitory order being in force.
Terming the situation deeply concerning, Shahan Kichloo said a prohibitory order cannot be enforced selectively and must apply equally to all, irrespective of political affiliation. He asserted that if the rule of law is to prevail, orders passed by the District Magistrate must be implemented in letter and spirit, and violators must be proceeded against strictly without fear or favour.
The infighting between the BJP and the Head of Project further escalated after the project head accused BJP MLA Kishtwar, Shagun Parihar, of attempting to derail the construction of the Rattle Power Project. The MLA, however, hit back at the project management, alleging that they had engaged kith and kin of the longest active Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist commander Jahingeer Saroori along with Over Ground Workers (OGWs) in the project.
The BJP maintained that its protest was not aimed at disrupting development but was rooted in concerns over security and local employment. Party leaders said their claims regarding the engagement of family members of the active terrorist and OGWs were later substantiated through a communication issued by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kishtwar, addressed to the Mega Power Project company. The SSP’s letter had reportedly exposed serious lapses in verification and highlighted how terror networks attempt to exploit major infrastructure projects.
The Rattle Power Project has long been considered a sensitive installation due to its location in the Chenab valley and its past association with terror-related incidents in and around the project site including that of killing of VDG members Nazir Ahmed & Kuldeep Kumar in Kuntwara village situated next to the project site by Pakistani terrorists. Security agencies have repeatedly flagged concerns about sabotage, infiltration and possible misuse of access to critical infrastructure by the Pakistani terrorist; particularly in wake of aftermath of scraping of Indus Water Treaty by the Government of India after Phalgam terror attack, prompting calls for stringent background verification and zero tolerance towards any security compromise within the project area.
The BJP further stated that it has been consistently fighting for employment opportunities for local youth and project-affected families. The party also raised the issue of retrenchment of around 230 workers by the project management, claiming that a majority of them were locals, which, it said, had aggravated resentment in the area.
The controversy gained further traction during the recent visit of the Union Power Minister to Kishtwar and other parts of the Chenab valley. The Minister reviewed the progress of key hydroelectric projects and reiterated the Centre’s commitment to timely completion of strategically vital power projects in Jammu and Kashmir, describing them as crucial for energy security, economic development and employment generation.
When questioned on the issue of alleged engagement of kith and kin of terrorists and OGWs in the project, the Union Power Minister M L Khattar assured that appropriate action would be taken if any such matter is brought to his notice in writing. He emphasised the need for close coordination between the administration, security agencies and project authorities to ensure both security and uninterrupted progress of the project.
Political observers say the unfolding developments have further sharpened the NC-BJP confrontation in Kishtwar and highlighted the complex intersection of development, security and politics in a district that has historically remained sensitive due to militancy and its strategic importance.
Meanwhile, calls from NC are growing for the district administration to demonstrate impartial enforcement of prohibitory orders, as any prolonged disruption or security lapse at the Rattle Power Project could have serious implications for regional stability, investor confidence and the overall development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir.
