BJP never opposed Durbar move: Ashok Koul

Srinagar, Nov 4: BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul on Tuesday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party was never opposed to the historic Durbar Move tradition between Jammu and Srinagar, even as he maintained that the government’s shift to digital governance has made administration faster and more efficient across Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters in Budgam, Koul said that while the Durbar Move was restored, the BJP’s focus has remained on ensuring smooth governance through modern technology rather than political symbolism.
“We were never against the Durbar Move. Our concern was always about efficiency and transparency,” Koul said. “Earlier, it used to take 15 days to load files into trucks and another 15 days to unload them. Now, with digital systems in place, work continues seamlessly in both regions.”
He said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, governance in Jammu and Kashmir has become more responsive, accountable, and result-oriented. “There is no need to politicise administrative reforms. What matters is that people get services without delay,” he added.
Koul, who was addressing reporters during the BJP’s campaign for its Budgam by-election candidate, said the party’s growing presence in central Kashmir marks “a significant political shift.”
“For the first time, the BJP has reached every polling booth, every village, and every neighborhood in Budgam,” he said. “Our workers are going door-to-door, seeking votes for the BJP. This itself is a big achievement for the party.”
Taking a swipe at the National Conference, Koul said the Budgam constituency remained neglected for decades despite repeated mandates to NC leaders. “For 70 years, the people of Budgam voted for NC, yet they still complain about poor roads, lack of drinking water, and erratic electricity,” he said. “If there is still underdevelopment, the reason lies with those who have ruled here for decades.”
He urged voters to support the BJP in the ongoing by-election to bring real development to the area. “If you want schools, hospitals, and better roads, vote for Narendra Modi. The development that is transforming India should also reach Budgam,” he said.
Reacting to NC Vice President Omar Abdullah’s statement that he would retain the seat where he secured more votes, Koul said Abdullah had “disrespected Budgam voters.”
“Omar said he would keep the constituency where he got more votes but still abandoned Budgam despite people’s support. Voters must take note of this,” Koul said.
He also criticised NC’s announcement of law university and other development projects during the election period, calling it a violation of the model code of conduct.
“We have no objection to development, but such announcements during elections are against the rules,” he said, adding that the BJP’s candidate has already lodged an objection with the Election Commission.
Highlighting local issues, Koul said public infrastructure in Budgam was in poor shape. “I visited Soibugh village yesterday. A dispensary built three years ago has not been handed over yet. Locals told me it has turned into a drug den for youth. This is the ground reality,” he said.
“Building universities is fine, but first fix basic services, schools, hospitals, and roads,” Koul said.
Responding to the PDP’s allegation that BJP and NC were working together, Koul said such claims were “baseless and politically motivated.” “The BJP has never had any understanding with NC. We have always opposed their politics. These accusations are just propaganda to mislead people,” he said.
Referring to the recent IHPL controversy in Kashmir, Koul said such incidents were “unfortunate” and reflected the rot left behind by previous governments.
“JKCA was full of scams even when Farooq Abdullah headed it. It’s time corruption in sports and administration ends once and for all,” he said.
Reiterating BJP’s stand on clean governance, Koul said the party remains committed to “free, fair, and transparent elections.”
“We believe in zero tolerance for corruption. No one will be spared if found involved in wrongdoing,” Koul added. (KNS)