SRINAGAR: Social and student rights activist Er. Ehtisham Khan has strongly condemned the recent demand made for free medical treatment and transportation services for former legislators of Jammu and Kashmir.
At a time when unemployment in J&K is at an all-time high, daily wage workers are protesting for their rightful wages, and even medical interns are struggling with underpayment, such demands from privileged political figures expose the deep disconnect between politicians and the common people, Er Khan said in a statement issued here.
“It is disheartening to see a seasoned politician prioritizing personal privileges over public welfare. While young graduates are forced to work for Rs 5,000-Rs 10,000 a month, and families are struggling with rising costs, former MLAs—who already receive hefty pensions—are demanding even more benefits. This is nothing but an attempt to secure their own comfort while the public suffers,” said Er. Ehtisham Khan.
The activist further emphasized that an MLA’s pension is already equivalent to the salary of two to three government employees, yet they seek additional perks while ignoring the hardships faced by the people they once represented. “Public service is meant to be about serving the people, not securing lifelong benefits at their expense,” he added.
What makes this demand even more outrageous is that just a few days ago while speaking to a media house, the Hon’ble Chief Minister himself admitted that Jammu and Kashmir’s financial condition is not good. If the region is already under financial distress, why are former MLAs attempting to create an additional burden on taxpayers? A businessman, a salaried employee, a daily wage worker—all work tirelessly to earn their living, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy. Instead of ensuring basic facilities like employment, infrastructure, and healthcare, former legislators now want special privileges at the expense of hardworking taxpayers. How justified and logical is this demand?
Jammu and Kashmir continues to face severe governance failures—be it the ongoing power crisis during Ramadan, lack of basic infrastructure, or the failure to generate employment opportunities. Students are being deprived of their right to education due to delays in academic schedules, and thousands of young professionals are struggling to find work. Rather than demanding better policies for the people, former legislators are seeking personal luxuries.
Er. Ehtisham Khan urged all political representatives to shift their focus to addressing the real concerns of the people rather than attempting to further burden the exchequer with undeserved privileges. “Instead of lobbying for personal benefits, former MLAs should use their experience and influence to push for policies that uplift the youth, empower the working class, and improve public services,” he said.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve better governance, not a political class that prioritizes itself over those it is meant to serve, Er Khan said.