In a stark revelation exposing administrative inaction, 2100 kanal of prime government land in Watergam, Wagoora, Baramulla district stands fully encroached upon by local individuals. This vast expanse, originally earmarked for public use including sheep grazing, now lies barren of any vacant space due to rampant illegal grabbing.
Tragically, not a single patch remains available for essential livestock grazing, severely impacting shepherds and the local pastoral economy. Despite repeated complaints, no authorities have taken concrete steps to reclaim the land or prosecute the encroachers, allowing the situation to escalate unchecked.
Syed Irfan Hashmi, a prominent socio-political activist from the region, warns that it will soon be too late to intervene. “This is the right time to act decisively against land grabbers,” Hashmi stated. “I urge the district administration, revenue authorities, and law enforcement to immediately launch operations to evict illegal occupants, restore the land for its intended public purpose, and prevent further exploitation of government assets.”
Hashmi emphasized that such encroachments not only deprive the community of vital resources but also undermine governance and rule of law in Jammu and Kashmir. He called for a thorough survey, demarcation, and strict enforcement to protect public lands across Baramulla district.

