Asif Iqbal Naik
Kishtwar Jan 4, 2026: Union Minister for Power, Housing and Urban Affairs, Sh. Manohar Lal Khattar, today visited the strategically important Kishtwar and Ratle Hydroelectric Power Projects and conducted a detailed review of their progress, implementation status and future roadmap.
During the visit, the Union Minister held a high-level meeting with Leader of Opposition, J&K Assembly, Sh. Sunil Sharma, BJP MLA Kishtwar Sushree Shagun Parihar, Haji Tariq Hussain Keen (Contested Candidate, Inderwal), District President BJP Kishtwar Sh. Ravi Parihar, Executive Member Sh. Chuni Lal Shan, along with other senior BJP leaders and concerned officials.
The meeting focused on timely completion of the power projects, strengthening of power infrastructure in the Chenab Valley, and ensuring maximum employment opportunities for local youth. The Union Minister reiterated the Centre’s commitment to harnessing Jammu & Kashmir’s hydropower potential for regional development and national energy security.
While speaking on the sidelines of the function, the Union Power Minister responded to concerns regarding the alleged engagement of Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and family members of active terrorists in power projects, while family members of martyrs are reportedly being retrenched. The Minister asserted that strict action will be taken against any such elements found securing jobs or contracts in the Kishtwar power projects.
He made it clear that individuals linked to anti-national activities will not be allowed to benefit from government-funded projects, and emphasized that the government stands firmly with the families of those who laid down their lives for the nation. The Minister further stated that any written complaint or credible evidence regarding such engagements would be thoroughly examined, and appropriate action would be initiated without delay.
Earlier, MLA Kishtwar Sushree Shagun Parihar, during her meeting with the Union Minister, strongly raised the issue of retrenchment of local workers by the project management. She expressed serious concern over the termination of around 230 local workers and called for their immediate reinstatement. The MLA also forcefully advocated for greater employment opportunities for local youth in all ongoing and upcoming power projects in Kishtwar district.
The Union Minister assured the MLA and other representatives that the concerns raised would be looked into seriously, and emphasized that development projects must go hand in hand with local welfare, fairness and transparency.
The visit is being viewed as a strong signal of the Central Government’s resolve to accelerate development in Jammu & Kashmir, ensure security and accountability in strategic projects, and guarantee that the benefits of major infrastructure initiatives reach the grassroots, particularly the local population.
