No protest in NC, leaders free to express views democratically: Sakeena

Srinagar, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday dismissed reports of resentment within the National Conference (NC) over the Cabinet expansion, saying party leaders were free to express their views democratically and that such expressions should not be construed as protests.
Speaking to reporters after four new ministers took oath at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar, Itoo said ministerial positions were not permanent entitlements and that the party offered several other opportunities for its leaders and legislators to contribute.
“It is not necessary that those who have been given an opportunity by the leadership will continue to get the same opportunity in the future. There are thousands of opportunities within the party where people can work,” she said.
Her remarks came amid questions over alleged dissatisfaction among some National Conference leaders following the expansion of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s Council of Ministers.
Defending the party’s legislators, Itoo said the MLAs were capable of performing their responsibilities irrespective of whether they were inducted into the Cabinet.
“Our honourable MLAs are strong at their respective levels and are working in their own capacities,” she said.
Asked about reports of protests by party workers and leaders over the ministerial selections, Itoo questioned the characterisation of the developments as demonstrations.
“Where are the protests happening? Are they taking place on the roads? If people are expressing their anger or views, they are doing so at the party headquarters and nowhere else,” she said.
The Minister maintained that the National Conference provided democratic space to its members to express disagreement with decisions taken by the leadership.
“This party has given them the democratic right to express their opinions. They are expressing their views, not protesting,” she asserted.
Responding to questions about allegations that Jammu had been ignored in the Cabinet expansion, Itoo rejected the suggestion and pointed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
“Where is Jammu being ignored? Where is our Chief Minister?” she asked.
The remarks followed the induction of four legislators into the Council of Ministers on Tuesday, an exercise that has triggered political discussion over regional representation and the selection of ministers.
Itoo’s comments sought to draw a distinction between internal expressions of dissatisfaction and organised dissent, while defending the leadership’s authority to decide ministerial appointments. (KNS)