Indian forces occupying grounds meant for youth: Mehbooba Mufti
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, has expressed serious concern over public playgrounds being occupied by Indian forces, warning that such actions deprive the youth of much-needed open spaces for sports and recreation.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a post on X, Mehbooba Mufti said there was a growing concern about public spaces meant for the younger generation being taken over by police or paramilitary forces. She said that after Chattabal Tabela ground, new instances of occupation have emerged.
“The MET (Muslim Educational Trust) custodian land at Bhagat Barzulla, regularly used by local youth, is reportedly being claimed by police. Similarly, the Zoo Ground at Sheeri Baramulla is reportedly being taken over by the CRPF,” Mehbooba wrote.
She warned that such moves “risk depriving youth of the few remaining open spaces essential for healthy and constructive activities.” The PDP chief urged the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to intervene in the matter and ensure these spaces remain accessible to the public, particularly the younger generation.
