Srinagar, Mar 12 : It has come to our attention that a deeply troubling and dangerous nexus is operating in Jammu & Kashmir, involving land mafia, affluent elites, a selective administration, and corrupt elements within the police and other agencies. These forces are openly engaged in the illegal sale and leasing of temple lands and properties, allowing this unethical activity to thrive unchecked. The situation is made worse by the fact that the courts and the administration continue to turn a blind eye to this growing scandal, with cases neither filed nor heard. The justice system has become dormant, paralyzed by the corrupt web of influence that sustains this criminal activity.
These individuals, shielded by powerful political figures, bureaucrats, and others in positions of authority, have shown utter disregard for the sanctity and heritage of religious properties, treating them as mere commodities for personal gain. The illegal management of Durga Nag Temple has already sold off every inch of land belonging to the temple, and the Ram Samadhi Temple, along with other religious properties in Srinagar, is now facing the same fate. These temples, once revered as symbols of faith and cultural heritage, are being stripped of their identity, history, and significance.
Despite clear and unequivocal orders from the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, which have consistently affirmed that the deity is the rightful owner of the temple and not the trustee, the administration remains silent and complicit in these illegal acts. This blatant disregard for the law continues to allow the land mafia to encroach, sell, and lease temple lands, despite court rulings that protect the deity’s ownership. The government’s inaction and failure to enforce these rulings embolden the land mafia and further erode the rule of law.
Equally concerning is the deliberate silence from the government, which has not taken any meaningful action to address the situation or acknowledge the widespread devastation. The authorities’ failure to act only serves to embolden these criminal groups, allowing them to proceed with their plans without fear of repercussions.
The criminal nexus doesn’t stop at land encroachments. These same individuals are also spreading hateful propaganda with the explicit goal of discouraging people from certain communities from visiting Kashmir. This divisive rhetoric exacerbates existing tensions and contributes to the further polarization of society, creating a toxic environment that undermines peace, unity, and harmony.
This situation demands immediate intervention. It is not only an attack on the heritage, history, and sanctity of our temples and religious properties but also an assault on justice, fairness, and the values that every citizen of Kashmir deserves. The land mafia, along with their political and bureaucratic enablers, must be held accountable for their actions. It is imperative that the government and law enforcement act swiftly and decisively to dismantle this criminal nexus before more of our land, history, and peace is lost.
As per the law, the Deputy Commissioner is the custodian of migrant properties, including temples, and should have oversight over these lands. Yet, under his nose, lease agreements are being made and court authorities are attesting to illegal dealings concerning temple properties. This is a grave violation of the law and must be stopped immediately.
“We call on the government, the judiciary, and law enforcement agencies to take urgent action to break up this corrupt nexus, restore the sanctity of religious properties, and bring the responsible individuals to justice. The people of Kashmir deserve better, and we will not tolerate any further destruction of our land, heritage, or unity,” said Satish Mahaldar, Chairman J&K Peace Forum in his Statement.
