SRINAGAR: National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Friday said the Omar Abdullah-led government was working to ensure political, social and administrative representation for all regions and sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a delegation of NC office-bearers and workers from Samba district led by senior party leader Rajesh Sagotra, Abdullah said the party would continue to follow the principles laid down by its founder, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah.
He said the land reforms introduced under Sheikh Abdullah were a landmark measure that enabled poor and working-class families across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh to gain ownership rights over land, contributing to social and economic change. He also credited the party’s past policies with improving living standards and expanding access to education and healthcare in the region.
During the interaction, delegation members apprised the NC president of public issues and challenges in their respective areas and briefed him on organisational activities in Samba district.
Abdullah criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that development in Jammu had been affected after the region voted for the party. He claimed that public issues, development and economic growth should have been prioritised over religious considerations in politics.
The NC leader also alleged that employment opportunities meant for Jammu and Kashmir youth had been opened to candidates from outside the Union Territory.
Referring to the Darbar Move, Abdullah said the BJP had discontinued the biannual shifting of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu, which he described as an important administrative and economic link between the two regions. He claimed that the Omar Abdullah-led government restored the practice after assuming office.
He urged party workers to strengthen the organisation, maintain close contact with the public and raise people’s issues at various forums. He also called on them to help address public grievances through available channels and resources.
