CM Omar’s residence becomes a new hub for protests in Valley
The residence of Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah, located on the high-security Gupkar Road, has become a focal point for protests in the Valley. Since Abdullah assumed office, the residence has witnessed at least three major protests, including one led by NC MP Aga Ruhullah, which attracted students demanding changes to reservation policies.
On Wednesday, wildlife casual labourers staged a protest outside the CM’s residence, demanding their salaries be made equivalent to those of casual employees in other departments. Bilal Ahmad Dar, president of the Wildlife Casual Labourers Association, explained that the protest was not aimed at seeking regularisation of jobs but rather a consistent monthly salary for the wildlife employees. He added that the workers receive a minimal amount, making it difficult to support their families.
Dar also mentioned that the employees had previously met with the UT's Forest Minister in Srinagar and Jammu, but no progress had been made. Following the protest, several employees were detained by the police. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah later met with the protesters and invited them to Jammu next week, where the Forest Minister would be present to discuss the issue.
This protest marks the third such demonstration outside the CM’s residence since he took office. The first occurred in late December when Aga Syed Ruhullah, a National Conference MP, led a protest outside Abdullah’s residence, demanding the rationalisation of reservation policies. Another protest by farmers opposing the NIIT campus project in Pulwama also took place in December.
Protests outside the CM’s residence are a relatively new occurrence in the Valley. Traditionally, demonstrations were held at locations like Press Colony and Pratap Park in the heart of Srinagar, with the highly fortified Gupkar area previously considered off-limits for protestors.
The National Conference maintains that the protests are a reflection of a more open and democratic environment under the elected government, which contrasts with the restrictions during the L-G rule.
