By: Ayat Adil
Srinagar, Jan 19: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra on Saturday said his party would raise issues related to employment, regularisation of daily-wage workers and power tariff relief during the Union Territory’s Budget Session beginning February 2.
In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Upfront, Parra said unemployment would be his primary concern during the session, as it directly impacts the lives of people across Jammu and Kashmir. “Without stable jobs, families are struggling to pay power bills, meet daily expenses and plan for the future. The government must move beyond announcements and present a clear roadmap for job creation and fair wages,” he said.
MLA Pulwama said rising unemployment among youth has led many educated young people to leave the region in search of work. “When youth do not find work at home, it results in frustration, migration and helplessness. The government must create conditions where young people can earn a dignified livelihood within the region,” he said.
Parra said the government must immediately move to regularise daily-wage workers who have been serving for years without job security. “These workers have kept essential departments running but continue to live without dignity or certainty. The Budget Session should commit to a time-bound policy to end this injustice,” he said.
He added that regularisation would also improve efficiency in public departments. “When workers are assured of regular employment, they are more motivated and accountable. It reflects the government’s responsibility towards those who sustain public services,” he said.
Raising concerns over power tariffs, Parra said electricity bills have become unaffordable for ordinary households, especially during winter. “We are demanding meaningful relief through subsidies, rational billing and protection for low-income families. Jammu and Kashmir is a power-generating region, and people should not suffer inflated bills amid unreliable supply,” he said.
Parra said addressing unemployment requires more than policy announcements. “We will push for transparent and time-bound recruitment, filling long-pending vacancies and investment in local sectors such as tourism, handicrafts and agriculture. Skill development must be linked to actual employment opportunities,” he said.
He said the PDP would take a strong stand in the Assembly if these concerns were not addressed. “We will raise these issues consistently and demand accountability so that the voices of workers, youth and ordinary citizens are not ignored,” he said.
Parra said the Budget Session must deliver results on the ground. “Announcements alone are not enough. Implementation must be timely, transparent and effective,” he said, adding that continued delays could have serious consequences for families and workers.
Political observers said Parra’s remarks reflect growing public dissatisfaction over delays in addressing employment, power and daily-wage worker issues. The Assembly session starting February 2 is expected to be closely watched for how the government responds to these demands.
“Our aim is to ensure dignity, security and opportunity for every resident of Jammu and Kashmir,” Parra said.
