01/08/2025
Yudhvir Sethi strongly defends shopkeepers, slams JMC over unjustified drive in Purani Mandi
JAMMU, Aug 1: In a people-centric stand, BJP Senior Leader and MLA Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi, came out in strong support of the shopkeepers and traders of Purani Mandi, condemning the anti-encroachment drive by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).
The sudden and harsh action by the Jammu Municipal Corporation during the festive season has drawn widespread criticism from the local business community, who accused JMC of harassment and selective targeting.
MLA Yudhvir Sethi minced no words while addressing the issue. “Jammu is my city, and I will not allow its soul—the heritage bazaars—to be attacked under the guise of regulation, especially during Hindu festivals. I had spoken directly with the JMC Commissioner and made it clear that no action should be taken without prior consultation with the Bazaar Association President,” he said while interacting with aggrieved shopkeepers.
He questioned the timing and intent behind the drive. “The festive season is not a time for demolition and disruption. It's a time when shopkeepers, many of whom are small-scale traders, earn their living. These unannounced actions appear to be deliberate and suspicious, especially when targeted at Hindu-majority areas. Is there a deeper agenda behind this?” he asked.
Yudhvir Sethi accused certain JMC employees of overstepping their mandate and spreading fear and chaos.
“This is not governance. This is bullying of honest shopkeepers and citizens. I will not allow it. If the JMC needs to regulate, let them do it respectfully and lawfully — by involving local leadership and market presidents,” he added.
He issued a stern warning to the officials saying, “If such actions are repeated without coordination, I, as the elected MLA and public representative, will intervene firmly. These shopkeepers made me their MLA, and I will stand by them, come what may.”
MLA Sethi demanded that any future action must be carried out in the presence of the Bazaar Association President and the MLA.
“Jammu’s old city is not just a market, it’s our heritage. Every small shop, every trader here carries forward our culture and economy. Hurting them is like hurting Jammu itself,” he said emotionally.
He also emphasized that a full inquiry must be launched into whether the drive was politically motivated or executed under any influence.
“If this is a conspiracy against the Hindu festivals and sentiments of the people, it will not be tolerated. I will take this matter to the highest level.”
Calling for administrative maturity and coordination, he urged the JMC to adopt a people-first approach.
“Jammu Smart City is not just about development of roads and buildings, it’s about protecting livelihoods and respecting the people who give life to the city,” he asserted.
MLA Yudhvir Sethi concluded with a strong message, “No such drive will be allowed again without consensus. The trust of the people of Jammu is my top priority. I will ensure that justice is done and that no poor or hardworking trader is made to suffer due to bureaucratic high-handedness.”
The shopkeepers and traders of Purani Mandi expressed heartfelt appreciation for MLA Yudhvir Sethi’s timely intervention and unwavering support. Many of them hailed his visit as a morale booster, stating that his presence gave them the courage to voice their grievances openly.
They praised him for standing by them during a crucial time and protecting their interests when they felt unheard by the administration. Several local businessmen remarked that his assurance brought a sense of relief, and they now feel confident that their concerns will be addressed with seriousness and fairness.
