Jammu, Jan 08: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said the promises made by previous undemocratic regimes to ensure balanced development in Jammu and Kashmir have fallen flat, citing “deteriorating civic infrastructure” in Jammu city.
“(He) Dr Farooq made these remarks while echoing the sentiments of several individuals and delegations who visited him at his residence in Bathindi, Jammu,” the party said in a statement issued here, adding that the delegations hailed from Poonch, Katra, Jammu Rural and Kathua.
Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, former minister and Additional General Secretary, and Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu were present during the meeting.
Dr Abdullah expressed deep concern over the escalating struggles faced by the general public on a daily basis. “The residents of Jammu city are grappling with numerous civic challenges as a result of the lackadaisical attitude of the authorities over the past ten years. Tall claims have remained mere words on paper. The previous monsoon season has laid bare the hollowness of the BJP-led Jammu Municipal Corporation’s lofty promises,” he said.
The NC chief said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has exacerbated people’s suffering. “JKNC is dedicated to rectifying the injustices inflicted by the BJP in J&K,” he said.
“BJP cannot use its right-wing ideology as a shield to avoid answering crucial questions about the declining civic amenities in Jammu city,” Dr Farooq said. He urged party functionaries to prepare for the upcoming ULB and Panchayat elections.
“Jammu and Srinagar cities are in desperate need of a comprehensive urban renewal program and united efforts to tackle the issues arising from the ever-growing population. Only NC has the vision to move in that direction, as outlined in our manifesto,” the former chief minister said, adding, “The BJP excels in rhetoric, but when it comes to action, they fall short. Jammu, like Srinagar, is the cultural and economic hub of our region, and any progress must be all-encompassing and sustainable. It must impact every aspect of urban life, from culture to commerce.”
