15/07/2025
Massive Protests Erupt in Hermain Against NC Government's Alleged Failures and Bias
Hermain, Shopian | July 15, 2025:
A wave of public anger swept through the Hermain area of Shopian as hundreds of residents staged a protest against what they described as the National Conference (NC) government’s continued neglect and discriminatory policies. The protestors accused the sitting MLA of Zainapora, Mr. Showkat Ganie, of sabotaging key developmental initiatives in Hermain to benefit his native village, Chitragam.
Residents raised serious allegations that the feasibility for establishing a ZEO (Zonal Education Office) in Hermain was deliberately obstructed by Mr. Ganie, who allegedly pressured the then Principal of Higher Secondary School Hermain—now Dy. CEO Mr. Aijaz Ahmad—not to approve the location. The denial of this long-pending demand has sparked widespread resentment among the local population.
Moreover, protestors accused the MLA of intentionally stalling the upgradation of PHC (Primary Health Centre) Hermain, a vital healthcare facility for the area. “At every step, development meant for Hermain is being diverted to Chitragam. Our PHC remains neglected, our roads unfinished, and our voices unheard,” shouted one of the protestors.
Adding to the outrage, locals alleged that the macadamisation project originally sanctioned for Hermain was "stolen" and redirected to Chitragam MLAs native village. “This is nothing less than theft. The funds and work that belong to Hermain have been hijacked for political gain,” said another angry resident.
The protestors warned of intensifying their agitation if the administration fails to take corrective measures. They demanded an impartial probe into the ZEO feasibility denial and the reallocation of developmental works. Civil society members and local youth organizations have pledged to continue their protests until justice is served.