Protests erupt in Bandipora’s Sumbal area against former BJP sarpanch
Srinagar: Protests erupted in Sumbal area of Bandipora district in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK) against harassment, extortion, and intimidation by former BJP sarpanch (village head) Mehraj Rather, who has recently rejoined the saffron party.
According to Kashmir Media Service, chanting slogans, dozens of tipper owners and contractors said that Mehraj had unleashed a reign of fear in the area by threatening contractors at worksites, forcibly demanding money, and obstructing daily operations. “He openly threatens to burn our tippers if we don’t pay. Is this democracy?” said an angry tipper operator.
Protesters also said Mehraj is already facing multiple police cases, including those related to extortion, fraudulent electricity concessions, and fake job appointments. “With fresh evidence emerging, his criminal conduct stands fully exposed,” the contractors said.
Public anger intensified following Mehraj’s return to the BJP. “Is this the the leadership BJP wants to promote? He’s turning governance into gangsterism,” said another protester.
Adding to the outrage are reports that Mehraj illegally felled over 600 walnut trees, a serious violation as cutting walnut trees is banned in IOJK.
Protesters demanded immediate and strict legal action, urging authorities to hold Mehraj accountable and end what they described as unchecked political impunity
