Kashmiri Pandit shopkeepers protest JDA demolitions near Muthi camp

JAMMU — The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) demolished over a dozen shops belonging to Kashmiri Pandits near the Muthi camp in Jammu.

The shopkeepers alleged that the demolitions took place without prior notice, prompting them to stage a protest against the JDA.

JDA, however, said that these shops were constructed on state land belonging to the authority and were demolished due to ongoing developmental works. However, the shopkeepers disputed this claim, stating that they received no notice before the demolition.

The incident drew criticism from various political parties, prompting Relief Commissioner Arvind Karwani to visit the site and he assured the shopkeepers that new shops would be constructed in the area soon.