Srinagar, Jan 29: National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said the restoration of a democratic government under the leadership of Omar Abdullah has “liberated” the people from “bureaucratic red tape” and brought an end to the “era of accountability”.
He said this while addressing party functionaries at an event held to felicitate Syed Tauqeer, the recently appointed Provincial Secretary of the National Conference.
The meeting was organised by Provincial President Adv Showkat Ahmad Mir and attended by MLAs Shameem Firdous, Ahsan Pardesi, Salman Sagar, Mushtaq Guroo, former minister Mohammad Khalil Bandh, State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar and SM Head Ifra Jan. The leaders extended congratulations to Syed Tauqeer on assuming his office, the party said in a statement issued here.
Referring to the changes following the formation of the democratically elected government led by Omar Abdullah, the NC chief said, “The era of red tape and bureaucratic rule is now a thing of the past. People are no longer seen as subjects, but as citizens to whom the elected government is accountable. The days when the power corridors were off-limits to the common people are long gone. Now, individuals from all walks of life are flocking to the secretariat to have their issues addressed.”
Abdullah said the people have breathed a sigh of relief knowing that they have their own elected representatives in the legislature and government. “The elected government is fully aware of its responsibility to meet the expectations of its constituents and is actively working towards the restoration of statehood. Numerous initiatives have already been implemented, with many more in the pipeline that will provide reprieve to the people from the suffering inflicted upon them by the successive non-NC governments,” he said.
Dr Farooq said all the promises outlined in our manifesto will be fulfilled without compromise. “The government, under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, is operating on multiple fronts, striving to restore our dignity and address the developmental setbacks of the past decade. The commitment to progress and accountability is unwavering, ensuring a brighter future for all citizens,” he added.
The NC president said the party’s strength lies in its unity and the sacrifices made by its members over the years. He called upon party functionaries to actively prepare for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies and Panchayat elections.
Emphasising the need to field educated youth and women candidates, particularly in light of women’s reservations, he said, “It is crucial for women and youth to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our region through active participation in the democratic process.”
