Jammu, Aug 14: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said the successive regimes since 2014 have ignored the development of far-flung areas of Jammu region.
He said this while chairing a one-day delegates convention in Bhaderwah organised by Sheikh Mehboob Iqbal. Provincial President Jammu Rattan Lal Gupta, Vice Provincial President Khalid Najeeb Soharwardi, Provincial President YNC Jammu Ajaz Jan and District President Sajjad Shaheen were present on the occasion, the party said in a statement.
In his address Dr Farooq said, “Despite the tall claims of ‘sabka saath, sabka vikas,’ it is unfortunate that even after a substantial period, basic amenities continue to elude the people residing in far-flung areas, plunging them into enduring hardships. Although Bhaderwah is undeniably beautiful, it has yet to make its mark on the tourist map of the country. The limited infrastructure and road network present in this valley were established during successive NC-led governments.”
He said, “People are questioning the BJP about their lack of progress in developing the region during their decade in power. Where are the promised hospitals, colleges, and industries that were supposed to come post the August 5, 2019 measures? There seems to be no visible progress since 2014.”
“Where are the job opportunities for our local youth? Why have there been no special recruitment drives conducted here? What is holding them back from reaching out to the people and providing world-class tourist infrastructure? The people will demand answers from the BJP in the upcoming assembly elections,” he added.
Earlier, delegations from various areas gathered to meet with the party president at Dak Bungalow, Bhaderwah. During the meeting, several political activists from various parties joined JKNC, the party said.
Meanwhile, Farooq Abdullah and NC Vice President Omar Abdullah paid tributes to noted spiritual figure and veteran Gujjar leader, Baba Ji Mian Bashir Ahmed Larvi Naqshbandi (RA), on the 3rd anniversary of his passing.
The duo praised Mian Bashir Ahmed’s tireless efforts in uplifting the marginalized sections of society and bringing them into the region’s mainstream. Dr Abdullah described him as a man of profound knowledge, superior integrity and unparalleled dynamism, highlighting his dedication to the socio-political and economic empowerment of the Gujjar community.
Omar in his tribute highlighted Mian Bashir Ahmed’s commitment to peace-building and fostering unity among different sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged Baba Ji’s efforts in taking forward his valuable family traditions passed down through generations and prayed for his soul to rest in an exalted position in Jannat.
Other National Conference leaders also paid homage to Mian Bashir Ahmed’s legacy.
