Jammu, Jan 02: Describing dual control on governance as detrimental to the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference Additional General Secretary and former minister, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Thursday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has “not learnt any lesson” from the history and should remember that “oppressive politics” has a very short shelf life.
In a statement issued here, Sadhotra accused the BJP of hindering progress by enforcing dual control on governance, pursuing anti-people policies and stifling development.
The NC leader said the people of Jammu and Kashmir are well aware of the BJP’s “divisive agenda”, which is designed to derail the progress. He asked the BJP to read the writing on the wall, saying the people in this part of the country remain steadfast in their support for the National Conference’s “progressive” election manifesto, vision and “proven leadership”.
“It is the National Conference’s strong leadership under Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah that has been instrumental in its resounding success in the Assembly elections, sending tremors in the BJP rank and file,” he said. “The saffron party must stop daydreaming as it is destined for a crushing defeat in the ensuing civic and Urban Local Bodies elections.”
The former minister slammed the BJP for its lack of understanding of the Jammu and Kashmir politics that doesn’t accept “bullying tactics”. “The National Conference has a track record of fighting reactionary, divisive and communal forces whenever they tried to trample the glorious ethos of the state, which they have reduced to Union Territory,” he said, adding that the party has consistently demonstrated robust leadership and a clear roadmap addressing the aspirations of all regions and sub-regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
The NC leader highlighted the party’s comprehensive, election manifesto and vision that “prioritises” employment generation for educated youth, skilled and unskilled, implementing actionable policies to combat unemployment and provide sustainable livelihoods.
Sadhotra said boosting tourism and industry are under the active focus of the administration to leverage J&K’s potential to revitalise these key sectors for economic prosperity. The party is working towards driving inclusive growth to uplift marginalized communities and bridge socio-economic disparities,” he said.
The former minister said the National Conference is committed to addressing issues concerning marginalised communities and tackling the challenges faced by disadvantaged sections of society through targeted programmes.
“Unlike the BJP which is confined to few pockets of a region only, the National Conference, having presence in every nook and corner of both the regions, remains committed to the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of region, religion or caste,” Sadhotra said, reiterated the NC’s unwavering resolve to serve the people and work towards their brighter future.
