Jammu, 29 July (H.S.): All Jammu & Kashmir Panchayat Secretaries Association, district Kathua, led by district president, Roshan Lal Sharma, held a strong protest here today against the assault on their colleague.

Later they called on the Assistant Commissioner, Development (ACD), Kathua, and strongly condemned the recent assault on Panchayat Secretary, Parminder Singh during a PMAY verification exercise at Panchayat Buddhi, block Barnoti.

The Association submitted a written representation to the ACD, stating that Panchayat Secretaries carried out the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) survey and beneficiary verification strictly in accordance with the Government's prescribed guidelines. It expressed concern that Panchayat Secretaries are being unfairly blamed and subjected to false allegations despite performing their assigned duties with honesty and transparency.

The Association informed the ACD that a Gram Sabha was convened at Panchayat Buddhi on July 27 for the verification of PMAY beneficiaries. During the proceedings, a group of individuals allegedly resorted to physical assault and misbehaviour with Panchayat Secretary Parminder Singh. The Association described the incident as highly unfortunate and demanded strict legal action against those responsible.

The delegation further requested that if there are any doubts regarding the PMAY survey or verification process, the exercise should be conducted by an independent department or committee to ensure complete transparency and fairness. The Association maintained that Panchayat Secretaries have only implemented Government directions and should not be held responsible for disputes arising during the verification process.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar