A total of 33 Private Members’ Bills are set to be discussed in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday, covering a wide range of issues including liquor prohibition, healthcare reforms, land rights, and social welfare.
Officials said these bills reflect growing demands on public health, employment, and protection of local interests in the Union Territory.
Multiple Bills Seek Ban on Liquor
One of the major highlights of the agenda is the push for prohibition. At least six different bills propose a ban on the sale and consumption of liquor.
Some proposals call for a complete ban across Jammu and Kashmir, while others suggest region-specific restrictions, including in the Kashmir Valley and areas like Lal Chowk.
Another bill seeks changes to the existing Excise laws to enforce stricter control on alcohol.
Proposal to Ban Private Practice by Government Doctors
A key bill aims to stop private practice by government doctors. The proposal is intended to improve public healthcare services by ensuring doctors remain fully available in government hospitals.
Supporters of the bill believe this step could strengthen the healthcare system and reduce dependence on private clinics.
Focus on Land Rights and Reforms
Land-related issues form a major part of the legislative agenda.
One bill proposes restoring the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Act, 1960, along with its original provisions before the 2022 amendments. This is aimed at protecting the rights of existing leaseholders and ensuring public land is used for local benefit.
Another proposal seeks to grant ownership rights to long-term occupants of state land and to regularise tourism-related land use. It also calls for transparency in land ownership transfers.
Bill on Protection of Religious Sites
The Assembly will also discuss a bill focused on the protection and management of Kashmiri Hindu shrines and religious places.
The proposal highlights the need to preserve religious heritage and improve governance of these institutions.
Food Safety and Public Health Measures
Two bills address food safety concerns. One proposes banning the import of frozen and chilled food items from outside Jammu and Kashmir to protect local businesses and public health.
Another bill calls for strict action against the sale of unsafe or unhygienic meat.
Employment and Welfare Proposals
Several bills focus on employment and social welfare. These include proposals to regularise casual and daily-wage workers and provide social security support to unemployed youth.
Another bill suggests offering compassionate jobs to the families of deceased government employees, security personnel, and civilians affected by terrorism or conflict.
More Bills Await Discussion
According to officials, the Assembly Secretariat has accepted a total of 72 Private Members’ Bills. While 33 are scheduled for discussion on Monday, the remaining are expected to be taken up on April 1, depending on available time.
