Jammu-Kashmir: Muttiah Muralitharan Free Land Row

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Controversy erupts in J&K over “free” land given to Muttiah Muralitharan’s company.
• Opposition parties demand answers from the government.
• The company plans a Rs 1,600 crore plant in Kathua district.
• Government states it will investigate the matter.
• 25.75 acres of land allocated for a bottle-filling plant.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Opposition lawmakers in Jammu and Kashmir have raised concerns after reports emerged that former Sri Lankan cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan was allotted land in Kathua district “free of cost” to set up a bottling plant for his beverage company. The Omar Abdullah-led government, however, said it had no information on the matter. The allotment to Muttiah Muralitharan has sparked political controversy.

The Case

As per reports, Muralitharan’s company, Ceylon Beverages, has been allotted 25.75 acres for a Rs 1,600 crore bottle-filling and aluminum can-manufacturing unit in Kathua. This allocation has led to several questions. Was this allotment done according to the rules? Were similar opportunities given to other companies?

Opposition Protest

On Saturday, several lawmakers from the opposition Congress and CPI(M) raised their concerns during the Question Hour in the ongoing Budget session. While CPI(M) MLA MY Tarigami questioned the allotment of land “free of cost” and sought a reply from the government, Congress legislator GA Mir described the matter as “serious.”

Why Land to a Non-Indian?

Mir emphasized that an investigation must look into how a non-Indian was “provided land without having to spend a penny.” He claimed that this allotment is against the rules and should be investigated at a high level.

Government’s Response

In his reply to the opposition legislators’ concerns, Javed Ahmad Dar, the Minister for Agriculture Production, said, “This is a matter related to the revenue department. We do not have any information, and we will look into it to know the facts.” He assured that the government is taking this matter seriously and will bring the facts to light soon.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Controversy arises in Jammu & Kashmir regarding land allocation to Muttiah Muralitharan.
• Opposition parties in the region are demanding clarity and accountability from the government.
• Muralitharan’s company is planning a significant investment of Rs 1,600 crore in Kathua district.
• The government has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the land allotment process.
• The allocation involves 25.75 acres of land designated for a bottle-filling plant facility.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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