Former BJP ministers suffering from hangover

Even after breaking of the alliance with the PDP, former BJP ministers of the previous regime are finding it difficult to come out of the ‘hangover’ of power and treat themselves as simple legislators. On July 29, former minister Sham Lal Choudhary inaugurated some roads constructed under the Border Area Development Project. In the plaques, which were installed during the inauguration, Choudhary is mentioned as “Hon’ble Minister for PHE” despite the state being under Governor’s rule since June 20. — Dinesh Manhotra

One-upmanship 35A

Amid competitive politics between the PDP and BJP, leaders of both the parties avail every opportunity to present their stands on Article 35A of the Constitution. When a “disgruntled” BJP lawmaker Gagan Bhagat supported the provision, former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was quick to take the opportunity to reap political benefit. Instead of confirming whether Rajesh Gupta, who had spoken in the favour Article 35A, was an active primary member of the BJP, Mehbooba took name of BJP MLA from Jammu East Rajesh Gupta for supporting the provision. As a result the former Chief Minister wrongly dragged a sitting BJP MLA in the list of those backing Article 35A. — Dinesh Manhotra

Traffic cops go rural

The campaign of the traffic police to challan violators continues but with a difference. Earlier, the traffic cops were mostly seen in the city periphery or urban areas to fine violators. Now, the focus has shifted towards city outskirts and rural areas. Traffic cops are being deployed in the areas like Kunjwani, Sehora, Raipur Satwari, Bishnah, Bari-Brahmana, etc. To avoid paying fine, the motorists and motorcyclists in these areas have now started following the traffic norms.— Vikas Sharma

Cattle menace

If traffic chaos in Jammu city was not enough, stray domestic cattle are making roads unsafe. While officials are making big plans to turn Jammu into a smart city, cattle and buffaloes can be seen sitting on roads and roaming at most places. Added to this is the flocks of sheep of Gujjars, who have illegally established their camps at several places in the city. — Sumit Hakhoo

Parade in slush

With 72nd Independence Day round the corner, patriotism is again the flavour of the season. Tricolours are being sold in the markets and schoolchildren are engaged in rehearsals for the I-Day parade. However, due to rains, schoolchildren are being forced to rehearse in the muddy mini-stadium in Jammu. Despite the slush-filled stadium, children can be seen enthusiastically preparing for the big day. However, the schools seem to be ignorant about the effect of slush on the health of the children. They only want a good presentation on August 15. — Amit Khajuria