Jawalamukhi: Addressing a press conference at the PWD Rest House, MLA Sanjay Rattan congratulated all newly elected representatives who emerged victorious in the recently concluded Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad elections. He said that the greatest strength of democracy lies in the people, who elect their representatives with the expectation of development and public service.
Rattan extended his congratulations not only to the winners but also to all candidates who participated in the democratic process. He said that seeking the trust of the people and contesting elections is an important contribution to democracy. Expressing confidence in the newly elected representatives, he said they would work closely with the government and administration to promote development and public welfare across the constituency.
The MLA stated that balanced development across all panchayats of the Jawalamukhi Assembly constituency remains his top priority. He emphasized that every village should have access to basic amenities and that no panchayat should be left behind in the development process. According to him, public representatives and the administration will work together in a planned manner to identify and address the concerns of local residents.
Describing Jawalamukhi as a world-renowned religious destination, Rattan said that devotees from across India and abroad visit the holy shrine of Maa Jwala Ji throughout the year. Therefore, he said, it is the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that the town remains clean, attractive, and well-equipped with modern facilities. He added that efforts would continue to strengthen civic infrastructure with the cooperation of the Municipal Council and other local bodies.
During the press conference, the MLA also addressed complaints regarding encroachments and blocked pathways in the Gate No. 3 area. He said that concerns had been raised by local residents and pilgrims regarding inconvenience caused by obstructions on public pathways, prompting the administration and Municipal Council to take note of the issue. He appealed to shopkeepers to conduct their businesses within the allotted space and avoid encroaching upon public areas so that residents and visitors do not face difficulties.
Rattan clarified that administrative action is never targeted at any individual but is taken in response to public grievances and in the larger interest of maintaining public convenience. He stressed that development-related matters and public welfare issues should not be unnecessarily politicized.
Reacting to recent organizational issues raised by Congress leader Neeraj Bharti, the MLA said that in any political party, the organization remains supreme. He stated that if any worker or leader has concerns or suggestions, they should be raised through appropriate party forums. Public allegations through traditional or social media, he said, weaken the organization and provide opportunities for political opponents to exploit internal differences.
He further remarked that while every individual has the right to express their views in a democratic system, it is equally important to respect organizational discipline and established channels of communication. He noted that political parties have adequate mechanisms for discussion and resolution of issues.
The MLA also paid tribute to a Shaurya Chakra awardee from the region who recently lost his life in a road accident. Calling the incident deeply tragic, he said the young man had brought immense pride to both the region and the nation through his courage and service. He expressed condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of all possible assistance from the government and administration.
Addressing concerns over road safety following the accident, Rattan said improvement works are already underway on the concerned road and any shortcomings would be rectified. He urged people not to politicize such unfortunate incidents and instead offer constructive suggestions that could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The MLA also referred to certain video clips circulating on social media and alleged that some of his statements had been presented out of context. He said that any statement should be viewed in its entirety before conclusions are drawn. According to him, the people are well aware of his work, conduct, and commitment to development.
Concluding the press conference, Rattan called upon all elected representatives of Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, Zila Parishads, and the Municipal Council to rise above political differences and work collectively for the progress of the region. He reiterated that taking the Jawalamukhi Assembly constituency to new heights of development remains his primary objective and that cooperation from all representatives will be crucial in achieving this goal.
Former Municipal Council Chairman Dharmender Sharma, Bareti Panchayat Pradhan, Youth Congress leader Gyaneshar Sharma, Munish Sharma, Ashwini Sharma, Sunny Sharma, and Ashwini Dutt Janu were also present during the press conference.