CM accuses BJP of “punishing” J&K voters; LoP flags governance failures and unmet promises
BuzzBytes Desk | Srinagar | Apr 24
A sharp political exchange erupted in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hit back at the BJP, accusing it of effectively admitting that restoration of statehood to the Union Territory was being delayed as a “punishment” to the people for voting in favour of the National Conference.
The remarks came a day after Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma launched a strong attack on the Omar Abdullah-led government, alleging “non-performance, corruption and misplaced priorities,” and claiming that the administration was more focused on events like marathons, skiing and high-profile engagements.
Responding to the criticism, Omar Abdullah said the BJP’s statements reflected “nervousness” following a recent large public gathering in Nowshera in Rajouri district.
“Unnerved by the grand show in Nowshera a few days ago, finally a bit of honesty from the BJP — the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for the National Conference,” the Chief Minister said in a post on X.
Taking a dig at the Leader of Opposition, Omar also remarked that the Legislative Assembly functioned “more productively” in Sharma’s absence, referring to his recent visit outside the Union Territory.
“Welcome back from Assam. The Assembly was quiet, and far more productive, without you,” Omar said.
Earlier, Sunil Sharma had asserted that the demand for restoration of statehood should not be linked to any individual or political family, in an apparent reference to the Abdullah family. “Statehood will come at its own time, but it cannot be tied to any one leader becoming chief minister,” he had said.
The BJP leader also accused the government of failing to deliver on key promises, including free LPG cylinders, 200 units of electricity and employment generation for youth. He alleged that governance had taken a backseat, claiming there was a lack of public outreach, departmental reviews and visible ministerial presence on the ground.
Sharma further alleged an administrative breakdown, accusing government offices of corruption and claiming that citizens were being forced to pay bribes for routine services.
Joining the political attack, National Conference spokesperson and MLA Tanvir Sadiq also took a swipe at the BJP leader, joking that he was “about to file a missing report” for the Leader of Opposition.
The latest war of words highlights intensifying political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly around the sensitive issue of restoration of statehood, which continues to remain a major point of contention between the ruling National Conference and the opposition BJP.
