Kulgam (J-K), Mar 18 – National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah criticized the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Monday, alleging that they are obstructing the conduct of assembly polls in the union territory. He accused the current dispensation of aiming to maintain power without accountability, likening their rule to that of uncrowned kings.
Abdullah expressed disappointment that simultaneous assembly elections were not held alongside the Lok Sabha polls, blaming the Jammu and Kashmir government for sabotaging the process to avoid relinquishing power to the people. He made these remarks while launching the National Conference’s election campaign for the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency.
Addressing party workers in Damhal Hanjipora, Abdullah criticized bureaucrats for creating obstacles in holding assembly elections, suggesting that their motives were self-serving. He emphasized that the situation in J-K had improved, and security concerns should not have hindered the electoral process.
Acknowledging the Supreme Court’s deadline of September 30 for conducting elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah expressed relief that polls would be held before the stipulated date. He urged vigilance against any potential tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), despite his reservations about their use.
Commenting on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), Abdullah asserted that the legislation does not solely target Muslims, highlighting its exclusion of various other minority groups. He criticized the BJP’s persistent adherence to divisive tactics.
Regarding the status of the Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), Abdullah affirmed its continuity, stating that individual engagements do not negate the alliance’s existence. He assured that the PAGD members would convene shortly.
Responding to queries about potential candidates, Abdullah refrained from confirming names, emphasizing that announcements would be made in due course. He dismissed the BJP’s delimitation of Parliamentary constituencies in J-K as a strategy to foster division and discord.
Addressing the issue of electoral bonds, Abdullah underscored the disparity in funding between his party and the BJP, highlighting the latter’s substantial financial backing. Despite this, he expressed confidence in the support of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the National Conference.
