Uri, Sep 7: Residents of border town Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have expressed resentment over delays in the issuance of domicile certificates by the authorities. A delegation of locals told Greater Kashmir that the process is taking more than a month, causing severe inconvenience. “I applied for my certificate last month. It has been almost 30 days, but the tehsil office has not responded despite my repeated visits,” said Shafiq Ahmad, a resident of Uri town.
Ahmad added that whenever he approaches the office, he is told that the concerned staff has been deputed elsewhere. “This certificate is an important document required for almost every official process. Unfortunately, the authorities here are not serious about issuing it,” he said.
Another local, Iqbal Banday, a shopkeeper, said the delay has become a major concern. “It takes months to get the certificate, which is extremely problematic. What will someone do if they need it urgently?” he asked. Banday alleged that while some applicants receive certificates within two to three days, the general public is made to wait for months. “Those who get it early may have good connections with the local administration,” he claimed. A student, requesting anonymity, said he fears missing a job interview due to the delay. When contacted, Tehsildar Uri Ashiq Hussain admitted the issue, attributing the delay to changes in the official portal. “The earlier system required minimal verification, while the new portal mandates proper checks, which causes delays,” he explained. “I will soon take up this matter with my staff and ensure smooth services,” he assured.
