Prominent Activist Agh Karar Hashmi Decries Official Apathy, Demands Immediate Banking Facilities for Nowgam Sonawari

KASHMIR.Speaking on behalf of the marginalized residents of Nowgam Sonawari, prominent sociopolitical activist and dedicated student of Hauza-Ilmia Qom, Agha Syed Karar Hashmi, today voiced strong condemnation against the continued neglect of basic banking facilities in the Nowgam Sonawari region despite repeated official assurances.

“In a glaring case of administrative indifference, over 30,000 residents of Nowgam Sonawari and adjoining areas continue to suffer due to the absence of basic banking infrastructure,” stated Mr. Hashmi from Qom City in Iran: “The local population has been pushed to the wall despite promises from the highest authorities.”

Highlighting the daily struggles faced by residents, Mr. Hashmi emphasized, “Our elderly, women, and economically disadvantaged community members are forced to undertake arduous journeys of up to 5 kilometers to access the nearest banking services in Sumbal. This is unacceptable in 2025 when financial inclusion should be a fundamental right.

The activist particularly criticized the unfulfilled commitments by J&K Bank authorities. The Chair of J&K Bank had personally assured the local population of swift sanctioning of a branch in their area. However, months have passed without any tangible progress, making these promises appear as mere hollow slogans as, during election seasons, it happened as usual.

Mr. Hashmi questioned the apparent discrimination, stating, “Why is this beautiful Hamlet Nowgam in Bandipora District being particularly targeted for neglect?” We had high expectations from the central government to transform Nowgam Sonawari into a model village given our historical hardships. Instead, we face continued marginalization and empty rhetoric.

Making a fervent appeal to the highest authorities, Mr. Hashmi declared, “On behalf of the entire population of Nowgam Sonawari, he urges the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, to personally intervene and ensure the immediate establishment of a J&K Bank branch in Nowgam area. This is not merely a demand but a necessity for economic survival and integration into the formal financial system.

The activist concluded that the people of Nowgam Sonawari no longer accept empty promises. They demand concrete action within a reasonable timeframe, failing which people will be compelled to intensify their peaceful agitation for the basic rights that have been denied for decades.