BJP neglected Jammu’s development: Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Nov 17: National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its “apparent lack of concern” for Jammu, accusing the party of neglecting the region’s development.
Speaking at a function commemorating the 92nd birth anniversary of senior Congress leader Pandit Mangat Ram Sharma, Abdullah pointed to issues like poor road conditions, unreliable power supply, high unemployment, toll plazas, job outsourcing, mining activities and the rise of large retail chains as evidence of the BJP’s “indifference”.
He questioned the BJP’s unfulfilled promises, asking where the promised jobs, roads, schools, and hospitals were after nearly a decade.
The NC chief said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, a democratic government would ensure comprehensive development in Jammu. He underscored the significance of the ‘Darbar Move,’ an old tradition that was discontinued by the lieutenant governor-led administration in 2021.
“This practice involved the government functioning alternately in Srinagar and Jammu every six months and was seen as a symbol of unity between the two regions,” he said, adding that ‘Darbar Move’ not only promoted unity but also supported economic and community relations.
The former chief minister expressed disappointment that the BJP viewed the ‘Darbar Move’ as a hindrance to its agenda, resulting in its cessation. However, he assured that an NC-led government under Omar Abdullah would work to revive this tradition to bridge divisions and foster unity. He reiterated the importance of embracing Jammu and Kashmir’s diversity, with the aim of achieving development and harmony across the region