Muthiah Muralidaran's company surrenders allotted land in Jammu and Kashmir due to ineligibility for the Central Sector Scheme (NCSS).
J&K News: The Jammu and Kashmir government implemented a special policy to boost industries, offering incentives to industrialists. Attracted by this scheme, the company of former Sri Lankan cricketer Muthiah Muralidaran was allotted land in Kathua district to establish an industry. The company planned to set up a soft drinks manufacturing unit with an investment of ₹1642 crore.
Company's decision due to ineligibility for government scheme
Muralidaran's company did not receive the benefits of the New Central Sector Scheme (NCSS) announced by the central government. Consequently, the company decided against establishing its industry in Jammu and Kashmir and filed an application to surrender the land.
Issue raised in the Legislative Assembly
On Saturday, this matter was raised in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. CPI(M) MLA Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami, without naming Muralidaran, questioned the basis for allotting land to a foreign cricketer. He demanded clarification from the government regarding the land allotment rate and any fees levied. Congress and several other MLAs also deemed the issue serious and demanded an investigation.
Application for 25.75 acres of land
Selan Beverages, Muralidaran's company, applied for 25.75 acres (205 kanals) of land in 2023. The land was allotted to them in Kathua in January 2024. However, the ₹28,400 crore package provided under NCSS by the central government expired, rendering the company ineligible for the scheme's benefits. This led the company to abandon its plans to establish the industry.
Land allotment process
In Jammu and Kashmir, applications for establishing industries are made through the government's single-window system. A merit list is then prepared considering investment, job creation, and environmental impact. After approval from the Apex Committee chaired by the state's Chief Secretary, the land is allotted. Muralidaran's land allocation followed this process.
Industrial investment and employment status
Under NCSS, 1984 industrial units have been established in Jammu and Kashmir with an investment of ₹9606.46 crore, providing employment to 63,710 people. The government received proposals for new investments worth ₹1.63 lakh crore by December 2024, expected to generate employment for 5.90 lakh people.
Government's stance
Arun Manhas, Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Industries and Commerce Department, stated that the government allotted land to all investors through the established process. Muralidaran applied to surrender the land two days ago due to ineligibility for NCSS benefits. The government will return the remaining amount after deducting 20 percent as per regulations.
