The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today criticized the National Conference (NC) Government for failing to deliver on its promises to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. BJP Chief Spokesperson, Sunil Sethi, addressed the media, accusing the NC of lacking a clear roadmap for the state’s development and governance.
Lack of Fulfillment of Promises
Sethi questioned the NC’s ability to live up to the commitments made in their manifesto, stating that despite their promises, none have been fulfilled. He pointed out that the NC had pledged free electricity to the people of Jammu and Kashmir but had backtracked, now stating that it would only be provided after metering systems are put in place.
“If they were aware of the requirement for metering, they should not have made such promises in the first place,” Sethi asserted. He urged the public to be cautious of political commitments that lack concrete plans for implementation.
The Politics of Deceit
Sethi also took a dig at the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, referring to the “politics of deceit” that he believes continues to dominate the region. He pointed to the recent Delhi elections as a reminder to political parties to refrain from making false promises that do not have the backing of a solid plan.
“In J&K, during the Assembly elections, we presented a clear roadmap for fulfilling our promises. The NC, on the other hand, released a manifesto but has not made any real efforts to implement its promises,” he said.
Statehood and Consolidation
When questioned about the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Sethi remarked that the region is currently in a phase of “consolidation” following the abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent victory over terrorism. He stated that while the restoration of statehood remains a priority, it requires time to ensure proper consolidation.
“Statehood restoration will happen, but there will be no unnecessary delays. However, proper consolidation is necessary before it can be restored,” Sethi added.
Political Rhetoric and Anti-National Statements
Sethi also criticized the rising rhetoric among regional political parties. He accused them of competing to make anti-national and pro-separatist statements, with the PDP and NC both engaging in divisive politics.
“The true face of politics has been revealed after the abrogation of Article 370. While the political parties engage in this rhetoric, the common people continue to suffer,” Sethi remarked.
Constitution of J&K
Addressing concerns raised about the deletion of references to the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir during the ongoing formulation of business rules for the Assembly, Sethi clarified that the Constitution of J&K no longer exists.
“Even if statehood is restored, Jammu and Kashmir will be governed by the Constitution of India. The Constitution of J&K has been rendered obsolete,” he said, emphasizing the supremacy of the Indian Constitution.
Kathua Suicide Incident
On the ongoing investigation into the Kathua suicide incident, which allegedly followed police excesses, Sethi assured that the BJP had raised the matter with the relevant authorities. He promised a thorough inquiry and warned that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing would be held accountable.
“We have taken up the issue with the authorities, and a detailed investigation will be carried out. Anyone found guilty will not be spared,” he concluded.
Key Points from BJP’s Press Conference:
- NC’s failure to deliver on promises such as free electricity.
- Criticism of the NC’s lack of a clear roadmap for J&K’s development.
- BJP’s stance on statehood restoration: “Proper consolidation is necessary.”
- Accusations of anti-national rhetoric by regional parties.
- Clarification that the Constitution of J&K no longer exists.
- Ongoing investigation into the Kathua suicide incident with a promise of accountability.
The BJP continues to maintain that the path forward for Jammu and Kashmir is one of proper governance, transparency, and adherence to the Constitution of India.
