Shopian, Dec 20 (KNO): District Development Council (DDC) Chairperson Shopian, Bilkesa Jan has written to the Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, expressing her strong concerns over the "non-cooperation" and "disregard" shown by the Chief Horticulture Officer, Shopian towards the DDC Council.
In her letter, a copy of which lies with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Chairperson mentioned a recent official function organised by the Horticulture Department, which included awareness programmes and the distribution of horticulture equipment.
Despite the significance of the event, the Chief Horticulture Officer failed to invite the DDC Chairperson and other council members, thereby ignoring the elected representatives who play a vital role in grassroots governance, the letter states.
"Such deliberate exclusion undermines the dignity and relevance of the DDC institution, which has been established to strengthen participatory democracy and ensure effective governance at the local level,"the Chairperson wrote. "This neglect not only disrespects our positions but also limits our ability to represent and serve the public effectively."
Bilkesa urged the Chief Secretary to intervene and ensure that all future programmes of public importance include the DDC Chairperson and its members. She also demanded strict action against the Chief Horticulture Officer for violating established protocols and ignoring the PRI institution in official matters.
"Better coordination between government departments and elected representatives is essential for the holistic development of the district and its people," she added.
The DDC Chairperson called for inclusivity and respect for democratic institutions, saying that collaboration between administration and elected bodies is important to ensure the success of developmental initiatives—(KNO)