.RAJESHWAR SINGH JAMWAL
A fresh scandal strains Jammu’s reputation under the Smart City Mission. Residents, who once believed in Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha’s development pledge, now doubt his commitment. Alike much touted smart city lamps which generally failed to operate at night, the wall paintings which used to adorn the city walls at many places has started loosing its sheen and pride. Lackluster wall painting at the entrance of Jammu Municipal Corporation and another wall annex, Ranbir Canal has started decaying. Painted with substandard materials, the eye catching sketches start crumbling within months of its painting on uneven walls at several places. Across Jammu, walls show moss and decay, contradicting part of the 1.64 lakh crore government of India mission’s aim to elevate the city’s aesthetic appeal. Looking at the pathetic condition of walls paintings, well meaningful residents question -Were these projects truly for Jammu’s uplift or to enrich a select few close to the administration ?
Annoyed residents, question the credibility of these beautification projects which were executed during the LG’s administration. Vast expenses of wall art, painted with cheap materials and poor designs, deteriorate rapidly which substantially show proof of misuse of taxpayers’ funds. With the mission concluding on March 31, 2025, why are these incomplete and shoddy results overlooked? Where are Jammu’s visual artists, NGOs, leaders, and media? Their refusal to address this disgrace raises eyebrows. Local MLAs, touting a “party with a difference,” must clarify: does their distinction lie in unchecked corruption with no one facing consequences? LG Sinha’s deafening silence—more disruptive than a drumroll—with his earlier assurances. Why has he disregarded complaints about Smart City Projects, reported repeatedly reflects apathy.
Loyalty to authorities must not overshadow national duty and this project calls for openness and responsibility to expose chasm between intended outcome and visible failures. This isn’t mere incompetence—it’s a blow to Jammu’s standing, fueled by unaddressed graft. The LG, CEO JSCL, and officials must respond to unmasked those who selected these faulty materials and approved non-creative works, ignoring originality. Who benefits ? Jammu demands justice , not justifications !
(Disclaimer- The author of the article is a prominent critic and social activists. Views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of JK Global News)