Past Action Against Illegal Miners Now Being Used to Malign DMO’s Image, Public Appeals for Transparent and Fact-Based Inquiry
Srinagar, Aug 2, KNT: The political corridors of Kulgam are abuzz with whispers of blatant double standards after a political leader wrote to the government seeking a probe against Khurshid Ahmad Dar, the District Mineral Officer (DMO) of Pulwama, who recently took additional charge of Kulgam. What initially appeared as a move for accountability is now being seen as a veiled attempt to settle personal scores.
The complaint against Khurshid Ahmad Dar was lodged on May 24, merely one day after he assumed additional responsibilities for Kulgam district. This swift and calculated timing has raised serious questions about the motives behind the complaint, which insiders describe as nothing short of a vendetta engineered by those unsettled by the officer’s honesty.
Join our WhatsApp Group
The crux of the matter dates back to 2022-23 when Khurshid Ahmad Dar, then posted in a different capacity, took firm action against illegal mineral extraction in Kulgam. He had imposed a hefty penalty of Rs 3.5lakh on seizure of machinery ( Two JCBs & 01 LNT)of M.Yaseen Parrey, a known violator in the trade. Notably, Yaseen Parrey and his brother Javaid Parrey are partners with Fayaz Ahmad the stepson of a political leader & major portion partner for MMB 23 in kanchewa Kulgam. This connection has sparked allegations that the complaint against DMO is orchestrated by these very elements who were penalised for their unlawful activities.
📢 8,000+ readers already joined for instant Kashmir News Trust updates
Join our Telegram Channel
“It’s a clear case of punishing honesty. Khurshid Sahib acted against illegal mining in 2022-23, and now in 2025, a complaint suddenly emerges right after he takes charge in Kulgam. What does that suggest?” questioned a local official familiar with the developments, while speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust adding that the then LG had orderd to expose and take action against every corrupt element.
Sources further revealed that the ongoing inquiry is being closely monitored by citizens who demand an unbiased and transparent investigation. “The inquiry officer should realise that this is not a battle of power, but a test of conscience. People are watching. He must base his report on facts, not favours,” a senior officer remarked.
The local populace, aware of the dynamics at play, has appealed to the inquiry committee to dig deep and expose the truth. “Witch-hunting an honest officer because violators have political backing is unacceptable. Either let honest officers work freely or vacate the chair for sycophants,” locals said.
As the inquiry proceeds, the case has turned into a litmus test for administrative integrity in Jammu and Kashmir. Will facts prevail, or will political influence once again trample over justice? The coming days will reveal. [KNT]
