Jammu Nov 11: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Monday slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its “failure” to fulfill its promise of restoring the statehood to J&K.
“The BJP government bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, snatching the special status of this princely state,” Choudhary said while addressing a workers’ conference organised by the J&K National Conference (JKNC) at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan here.
The conference, as per the party’s statement issued here, was aimed at discussing critical issues like the restoration of statehood and special status to “protect the rights” of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It was presided over by Rattan Lal Gupta Provincial President of Jammu Province JKNC.
In his address, the Deputy CM reiterated NC’s “unwavering commitment” to restoring J&K’s special status and statehood, saying these measures are essential for preserving the unique identity and interests of the J&K people. “As promised by (Chief Minister) Omar Abdullah, the NC government had passed a resolution for statehood restoration in its first Cabinet meeting. We also passed a resolution in the Legislative Assembly to initiate dialogue on restoring the special status of J&K,” he said.
Choudhary strongly condemned the “misbehaviour” and “drama baazi” of BJP MLAs in the Assembly. “This resolution is a step towards reversing the injustice done by the central government as it witnessed the unilateral revocation of our special status. This resolution rekindles hope for the people of J&K, especially in securing our land, jobs rights and dignity which are at risk without special status,” he remarked.
Surinder said that eleven states, including Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat and northeast states enjoy similar protections. Then why the BJP had denied these rights to J&K, he asked. “Jammu & Kashmir urgently needs similar protections to safeguard its land and job rights. There is a dire need to protect our resources and shield itself from exploitative elements, such as the liquor mafia, mining mafia, and contractors from outside,” he added.
The Deputy CM reaffirmed that the National Conference remains committed to advocating for the aspirations of J&K’s people. “The party will continue to fight for justice, dignity and rights of the people,” he said.
Rattan Lal Gupta delivered the welcome address, highlighting the “hardships” endured by the people over the past decade due to the “anti-people” policies of the BJP government. He praised Surinder Choudhary for introducing the “historic” resolution in the Assembly. “This resolution is a milestone in our journey to reclaim the rights and dignity of the people of J&K,” Gupta said.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Food Supply and Transport, Satish Sharma commended Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his commitment to inclusive governance and ensuring equal representation for the people of the Jammu region.
