Ganderbal, June 11, 2025 — The Jammu & Kashmir United Movement (JKUM) on Tuesday staged a protest in Ganderbal, accusing the government of misusing Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) funds and bypassing Gram Sabha consent in several panchayats.

Led by JKUM President Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar, the protestors raised slogans demanding transparency in the allocation and utilization of development funds. Jabbar alleged that funds are being distributed arbitrarily, without involving grassroots bodies, which he termed a serious violation of democratic norms.

“This selective and unauthorized distribution of PRI funds undermines the very essence of decentralised governance. Gram Sabhas are being ignored, and developmental works under RDD remain halted, adding to the crisis of unemployment,” Jabbar said while addressing the gathering.

He urged the administration to immediately resume Rural Development Department (RDD) works to address rising joblessness in rural areas. Stressing the need to restore grassroots democracy, Jabbar also appealed for early conduct of Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

The protest concluded with a call for greater accountability and adherence to the democratic processes enshrined in the Panchayati Raj framework.