Development Stalled in Pulwama: Growing Discontent Over Alleged Favoritism, Demands Surge for Return of Former MLA Mohammad Khalil Band.
Political tension and public frustration are rising across the Pulwama constituency. Local residents report that developmental work has come to a near-total standstill under the current representation of MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para, with less than 10 percent of expected infrastructure projects initiated or completed over the past two years.
Allegations of Favoritism and Regional Neglect Residents from various villages across Pulwama allege that basic civic amenities and public infrastructure are being ignored, while limited resources are selectively allocated:
Favoritism in Project Execution: Local community members claim that public works and administrative attention are primarily benefiting the MLA’s close political workers and agents, leaving ordinary residents in surrounding villages without basic support.
Agricultural and Horticultural Distress: Pulwama’s primary economic drivers apple growers and farmers express frustration over a lack of new welfare initiatives, market support, and irrigation upgrades.
Stagnant Infrastructure: Essential sectors such as public healthcare, local school infrastructure, and road connectivity remain largely neglected, with previously approved project frameworks left incomplete.
Legacy of Former MLA Mohammad Khalil Band Amid widespread dissatisfaction, residents frequently contrast current conditions with the tenure of former MLA Mohammad Khalil Band, citing a track record of consistent and widespread development:
Fair and Inclusive Governance: Citizens recall his leadership as transparent and accessible to all sections of society, regardless of political affiliation.
Substantial Infrastructure Growth: Key local developments including major road networks, school and hospital upgrades, and agricultural support schemes—were conceptualized and executed during his term.Calls for Political Shift Exasperated by the current lack of progress, public sentiment in Pulwama appears to be shifting toward future leadership changes, with many locals expressing a strong desire to support Mohammad Khalil Band in upcoming electoral cycles to restore developmental momentum to the constituency.