JAMMU, FEBRUARY 17 (KNT): Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Tuesday told the Legislative Assembly that verification exercises have revealed discrepancies in certain cases, stating that not all migrants are genuine.
The remarks came in response to concerns raised by CPI(M) legislator Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, who alleged that the government’s data on around 850 political migrants was incomplete and inaccurate. He questioned the reliability of official figures and said that despite the presence of an extensive CID network, it had taken nearly two years to compile the data.
Tarigami maintained that the government’s reply lacked comprehensive information and sought clarity on the process adopted for identification and verification of migrants.
Responding to the queries, the Deputy Chief Minister said that while a large number of migrants are genuine, scrutiny has indicated that some claims were found to be false. He said the government is committed to ensuring that only eligible beneficiaries receive assistance under various schemes.
Choudhary assured the House that the administration remains focused on the welfare of genuine migrants and that benefits are being extended from time to time in accordance with existing policy guidelines.
The exchange led to a brief debate in the House, with Tarigami pressing for greater transparency in data compilation and verification mechanisms related to migrant welfare schemes. (KNT)
