Srinagar: The J&K High Court on Wednesday came down heavily on government authorities for failing to submit report regarding lease properties in Gulmarg.
The court warned that in case the report about lease properties is not submitted before court by April 7, Secretary Tourism and Secretary Revenue shall remain present before court to explain their position on the matter.
The court observed that the authorities at the helm of affairs are taking court directions casually and we will not tolerate this lackadaisical approach from them.
Meanwhile, counsel for petitioner, Aijaz Chisti told the court that illegal constructions are still going on at Gulmarg. He pointed out that Khilan hut and Green tree have not submitted their reports regarding this.
To this, counsel R A Jan appearing for Khilan hut replied that they have not carried any illegal construction and had got valid permission.
Meanwhile Shafkat Nazir appearing for Green hut requested court that he be granted one more opportunity for submitting status before the court.
The court while hearing all the counsels recorded that in order to clarify the position directed Registrar Judicial to carry a spot inspection again in Gulmarg. It said that he should be assisted by concerned police station, revenue and wildlife authorities.
The court also directed that Registrar Judicial to take a site plan with photographs. “The report should be submitted on next date of hearing,” the court directed.
The court also directed Building operating and Controlling Authority (BOCA) to furnish all details regarding permissions given by them for constructions in Gulmarg by next date of hearing.
Meanwhile counsel representing Indian Army moved a fresh application before court stating therein that the permission granted by court for constructions in High Altitude Warfare School ( HAWS) has been restrained by Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Gulmarg after Registrar Judicial court took a spot inspection in November last year to assess the illegal constructions going around in Gulmarg area.
The court after hearing the counsel directed CEO, GDA to file report in this connection by next hearing.

NUSRAT SIDIQ