Srinagar: The Omar Abdullah-led administration in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is facing criticism following the transfer of an official who flagged unauthorized constructions in the eco-sensitive Pahalgam area. The move has raised concerns about the region’s environmental conservation efforts.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the controversy erupted after Masarrat Hashim, CEO of the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), was abruptly moved to the Labour Department. His transfer came shortly after he reported nearly 300 illegal structures in Pahalgam, Islamabad district, warning of potential ecological damage.

Hashim’s report highlighted hotels and lodges built in violation of environmental and building regulations. His warnings stressed the risk of irreversible harm to Pahalgam’s ecosystem and the undermining of conservation efforts spanning decades.

The decision to transfer Hashim has sparked allegations that influential hoteliers and construction lobbies, some allegedly linked to the ruling National Conference (NC), orchestrated the move. Waheed Parra, a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and MLA Pulwama, criticized the administration for yielding to vested interests.

“The National Conference has embraced the core ideology of the BJP. Under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, the J and K administration appears committed to advancing the BJP’s agenda of environmental destruction and land grabbing,” Parra stated.

Hashim, known for his strict adherence to environmental norms, had been reinstated as PDA CEO in December 2023, raising hopes for stringent regulation in the Lidder Valley. However, his removal has reignited concerns over environmental degradation and political interference.

Civil society groups and activists have condemned the transfer, urging the administration to address illegal constructions. Abdul Qayoom Wani, Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF), warned, “Turning Pahalgam into a concrete jungle will destroy its pristine beauty, harm the environment, and jeopardize tourism, the backbone of the region.”

This development coincides with the BJP-led Indian government’s announcement of infrastructure projects, including a railway line and a four-lane road to the Amarnath cave in Pahalgam, raising fears of further environmental impact.