Srinagar: Rajya Sabha MP and senior BJP leader Gulam Ali Khatana strongly criticized the Omar Abdullah–led Jammu & Kashmir government for its complete failure to tackle the deepening power crisis in Kashmir and the severe drinking water shortages in Jammu.
He said that despite the harsh winter conditions and the immense suffering of the people, the government has shown no urgency or intent to resolve these pressing issues. “This government has betrayed the public trust. The people gave them a mandate for development, but instead of serving them, they are indulging in politics over irrelevant matters,” he said.
Khatana condemned the proposed 20% electricity tariff hike during peak winter months, calling it a direct attack on already distressed families. “The promise was of free power units. Instead, the government is burdening people when they need relief the most. Public anger today is the result of broken promises and administrative collapse,” he added. He further pointed out that the electricity situation in Kashmir, Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, and Rajouri could become disastrous if the government fails to bring in practical and long-term solutions immediately.
Turning to the water crisis in Jammu, Khatana said many flood-affected areas still remain unattended, and essential drinking water supply stands disrupted for weeks. He added that the much-publicized online water tanker service is practically useless for tribal communities, who neither have the digital access nor the awareness to utilize it. “There is no proper monitoring—these tankers can easily be diverted for construction or other purposes instead of reaching those in need,” he said. He also noted that taps installed under the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission have gone dry despite huge expenditure, pointing toward mismanagement at the highest levels.
Khatana drew a sharp comparison with the former Governor’s Rule, stating that water supply in the Kandi belt was available every day during that period, but under the Omar-led government, people are receiving water only once in a month. “This is not just inefficiency—it is insensitivity,” he remarked. He further highlighted that while some areas are witnessing surplus water supply being wasted, others have not received a single drop for months, exposing the government’s complete lack of planning and coordination.
He also urged the administration to stop the frequent rotation of officers, saying that constant transfers prevent officials from understanding ground issues and delivering long-term solutions. “Unless there is stability in administration, neither water nor electricity problems can be solved,” he said.
Concluding his address, Khatana said that Jammu and Kashmir today needs decisive leadership, not diversionary politics. “People want solutions, not speeches. The NC government must stop escaping from its responsibilities and deliver on its commitments. The mandate belongs to the people, and their needs must come before political agendas,” he stated.
