Udhampur: MLA Udhampur East, Ranbir Singh Pathania, while addressing a series of public meetings and party workers across the length and breadth of the constituency, said that the reopening of the Sarla Bhat murder case and the filing of a chargesheet before the competent court mark a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice in Jammu & Kashmir.
Whereas out of the principal accused in the case, three have died, one is absconding, while Yasin Malik remains a surviving accused. Mr Pathania described the development as a turning point in the political and judicial history of Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming that justice delayed is not justice denied.
Recalling the tragic incident that occurred over three decades ago, Pathania said that Sarla Bhat, a nurse by profession, was abducted from her official quarters by militants and brutally murdered. He added that she was even denied a dignified funeral, making the incident one of the most horrific examples of terrorist brutality. The filing of the chargesheet after decades reflects the unwavering commitment of the Modi Government to ensure justice for every victim of terrorism, irrespective of the passage of time.
Pathania asserted that the policy of the Modi Government is based on “Justice for All”, and that every terror-related crime is being pursued with determination so that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
During his extensive tour, the MLA inaugurated a Community Shed at Shri Mahadev Temple, Seen Thakran (Upper Seen). He also dedicated a Community Hall at Shri Kabir Das Mandir, Baryal, constructed at a cost of ₹20 lakh.
Speaking on the occasion, Pathania said that the community hall would serve as a centre for social, cultural and spiritual activities, providing devotees and local residents a platform to deliberate upon and propagate the timeless teachings of Sant Kabir Das Ji Maharaj. He observed that Kabir Das’s message of harmony, equality, compassion and social justice continues to inspire generations and forms an integral part of India’s rich knowledge and cultural heritage.
The MLA also inspected and reviewed several ongoing developmental works, including those at Shri Baglamukhi Temple, Mian Bagh, and inaugurated a Community Path at Panchayat Garnai. He reiterated his commitment towards ensuring safe and clean drinking water for every household under the Jal Jeevan Mission, urging the people to remain patient while the remaining works are completed in a phased manner.
Among those present on the occasion were Puran Chand (Former DDC), Kaka Ram (Former Sarpanch), Subhash Sharma (Former Sarpanch), Vikram Singh (Former Sarpanch), Ram Lal, Babi, Balbir Singh, Ravinder Singh, Karam Veer, Janu Bandral, Ratan Singh, Dev Raj, Babby, Yuvraj Singh besides a large gathering of local residents and party workers.
