Jammu, Jan 01: Ajay Sadhotra, Additional General Secretary and former minister of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), on Wednesday urged party workers to intensify their preparations for the forthcoming Panchayat and Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in Jammu and Kashmir. He called for collective efforts to strengthen grassroots democracy and ensure the victory of JKNC candidates.
Addressing a gathering of party workers at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan, Jammu, Sadhotra strongly criticised the previous government led by the BJP, alleging its failure to deliver basic amenities to rural areas. He pointed out the lack of development and public welfare initiatives under the BJP administration, which, he said, had adversely affected the lives of people in villages and far-flung regions.
“The BJP government has failed to meet the expectations of the rural population. The promises of improved infrastructure, clean drinking water, electricity, and better road connectivity remain unfulfilled,” he said, adding that the neglect of rural areas during the BJP’s tenure reflects poorly on its governance.
The meeting, according to a party statement, was organised under the chairmanship of Chander Mohan Sharma, District President Jammu Urban JKNC. The event commenced with the cutting of a cake to mark the New Year 2025.
In the meeting, Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President JKNC, MLA Gulabgarh Er Khurshid, Babu Rampaul former Minister and Central Zone President, Sheikh Bashir Ahmed Provincial secretary and other party workers were present.
Chander Mohan Sharma briefed senior functionaries about the problems being faced by the people of Jammu due to the anti-people policies adopted by the previous government.
Rattan Lal Gupta in his address, emphasized the importance of strengthening democracy through active participation in the upcoming polls. “JKNC, under the leadership of Dr Farooq Abdullah, has always championed the cause of inclusive development and grassroots empowerment,” he said.
The provincial president asserted the programmes like “Back to Village” conducted under the BJP regime proved as a “superficial initiative” that failed to yield any tangible benefits for the people. “These programs were mere photo-ops and lacked meaningful follow-through, leaving the pressing problems of those living in remote and rural areas unresolved,” he said, adding, “Despite repeated assurances, issues such as poor road connectivity, lack of drinking water, inadequate healthcare facilities, and unreliable electricity supply continued to plague these regions.”
Gupta urged party workers to reach out to every voter, highlighting JKNC’s commitment to inclusive development and the welfare of all sections of society.
Abdul Gani Malik former minister and Zonal President Udhampur Reasi Zone, called for connecting with the masses and addressing their concerns effectively. “The upcoming elections are an opportunity for the people to voice their discontent and place their trust in a party that has always stood for unity, progress, and the welfare of all sections of society,” he said.
MLA Gulabgarh Er Khurshid emphasized the party’s unwavering commitment to public welfare and grassroots development. He highlighted the need for unity among party cadres to counter the challenges faced by the people.
Babu Ram, former minister reiterated NC’s legacy of inclusive governance and dedication to addressing the aspirations of every section of society. He called for a renewed focus on connecting with voters to strengthen the party’s presence across the Union Territory.
