Jammu, October 13: Prominent leaders of the National Conference, including former minister Babu Ram Paul, expressed their commitment to fighting for the rights of Jammu and Kashmir during a recent meeting. Paul said the party would effectively counter the divisive forces attempting to create communal and regional divides.
Addressing the pressing issues, Paul highlighted the rising inflation, escalating prices of essential commodities, and soaring unemployment, leading to increased depression and drug addiction among the youth. He urged the people to support Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, saying that a popular government led by the National Conference could alleviate the sufferings of the masses.
The meeting was organized by the Coordination Committee Jammu District (Urban), Central Zone JKNC at Jammu Club. Zonal President and former minister Babu Ram Paul, was the Chief Guest, whereas, Provincial Joint Secretary Ankush Abrol presided over the meeting and Dr Vikas Sharma, Coordinator Jammu District Urban and Zonal Secretary was a guest of honour.
Paul criticized the administration’s handling of post-August 5, 2019, situations, pointing out issues such as property tax imposition, installation of smart meters, and prepaid meters causing inflated power bills.
Ankush Abrol alleged that local earning patterns had been disrupted due to contracts being awarded to outsiders, adversely affecting the livelihoods of residents. Abrol also raised concerns about the deliberate appointment of officers from outside Jammu and Kashmir, exacerbating the grievances of the local populace.
Dr Vikas Sharma criticized the implementation of the Smart City initiative, highlighting the deteriorating condition of Jammu city with potholes and broken drains causing inconvenience to residents. Sharma emphasized that genuine Smart Cities are built by providing comprehensive facilities, not just installing signboards.
Rahul Mahajan reiterated his commitment to consolidating the party’s presence, emphasizing the need to disseminate the party leadership’s vision across Jammu and Kashmir for the region’s development and the benefit of its people.
The leaders collectively affirmed their determination to address these issues and work towards a positive change for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
