Govt ensuring equitable development of all regions, sections: Dr Farooq

Srinagar, Sep 18: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Friday said the National Conference will continue to follow the path laid by Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah saying the Omar led government has initiated a policy of ensuring political, social and administrative representation for all three regions and all sections of society.
In a statement issued, He said that the historic decision on land reforms initiated by Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah proved to be a revolutionary milestone in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. He said these reforms enabled a large number of poor and working-class people from Jammu and Ladakh, as well as Kashmir, to acquire ownership rights over land, bringing fundamental and transformative changes to their lives and instilling a sense of self-confidence and self-reliance among the people. He said that it was due to the historic and revolutionary measures undertaken by the National Conference that the standard of living of the economically disadvantaged people of Jammu and Kashmir improved, while the dreams of an educational revolution and the expansion of healthcare facilities were also translated into reality.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah made these remarks while interacting with a delegation of party office-bearers and workers from Samba district of Jammu province. The delegation was led by senior party leader Rajesh Sagotra. During the interaction, detailed discussions were also held on party affairs, organisational activities and the party’s grassroots engagement in different areas. The delegation members apprised Dr. Farooq Abdullah of the issues and difficulties faced by people in their respective areas and also briefed him about party programmes and organisational activities.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that Jammu had been making significant strides in terms of development, but the pace of progress was adversely affected after the people of Jammu voted for the BJP. He said that instead of dividing people along religious lines, priority should have been given to public issues, development and prosperity; unfortunately, religious sentiments were given greater political importance.
He said the impact of BJP policies has not remained confined to Kashmir and that the people of Jammu too are facing their consequences in various sectors. He said that opportunities for government employment meant for eligible youth of Jammu and Kashmir have been opened to candidates from across the country.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that the National Conference has always cautioned the people of Jammu to reject religious divisions and use their vote in favour of public interests, development and economic prosperity. However, he said, this appeal did not receive the desired response.
He said that the BJP had discontinued the Darbar Move, a practice that had long been regarded as the backbone of Jammu’s economy. However, the National Conference government headed by Omar Abdullah restored the Darbar Move soon after assuming office. He described it as an important tradition that had served as a vital administrative and economic link between Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Farooq urged party office-bearers and workers to work diligently to further strengthen the National Conference, reinforce unity and solidarity within its ranks, and highlight the issues and difficulties faced by the people at every level. He called upon party workers to remain in constant touch with the public and utilise their influence and available resources to help address their grievances. (KNS)