DODA: Despite the administration in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir adopting a stringent stance to reclaim state land and address habitual land grabbers, the indifferent attitude of officers towards an unlawful construction reportedly situated on government land at the main market in Thatri has faced significant backlash from the local residents.
The aggrieved residents told JK Global News that on October 6, 2025, the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Thatri was appraised about construction of a commercial structure on state land at main chowk, Thatri. However, nothing has been done as per law against this unauthorized construction.
Sharing a copy of complaint addressed to SDM, Thtari, a local of the area alleging that this illegal construction enjoys official immunity, said “The commercial structure in question is being constructed by one influential contractor having affiliation with PDP”.
Interestingly, the violator managed to construct and installed iron rolling shutter in broad day light without seeking building permission from the office of Executive Officer, Municipal Committee, which is located just at walking distance from the construction site.
According to SDM office sources, the construction stands on khasra number 1102/509, officially marked as state land. The prime spot in the main bazaar has long invited encroachers. No structure could rise there without inside backing, sources added.
The SDM Thathri has not replied to our WhatsApp message, and the Tehsildar, after claiming he didn’t know about the complaint and asking for details, has also stopped responding to calls or messages.
Asked about steps taken against this illegal structure lacking building permission, the in-charge EO of MC Thatri stated he is not managing the additional EO role.