Arun Jasrotia
UDHAMPUR ,TDD, In a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jammu and Kashmir’s Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today criticized the central government for failing to deliver on its promises regarding statehood restoration and protection of local rights.
Speaking to reporters in Udhampur, Choudhary said Prime Minister Narendra Modi previous assurances about restoring J&K’s statehood after elections. “Where are the promises now?” he questioned, highlighting the growing frustration among local residents over delayed commitments.
The Deputy Chief Minister particularly emphasized the BJP’s unfulfilled pledges regarding the protection of land and job rights for local residents. He referenced multiple assurances given by Home Minister Amit Shah and other BJP leaders about safeguarding local interests from external intervention.
“Our demand for statehood and special status is not unreasonable – it is our fundamental right,” Choudhary asserted, drawing parallels with other Indian states, particularly in the Northeast, that enjoy special status. “We seek these protections to preserve our land and employment opportunities for our people.”
Addressing electoral dynamics, Choudhary suggested that his party, the National Conference, could have altered the regional political landscape had they contested more extensively in the Jammu region. He cited their performance in Nowshera as an example of their potential impact.
The Deputy CM also took aim at the BJP’s communication strategy, suggesting that the party needs to improve its understanding and articulation of resolution documents. He advised the BJP to “focus on addressing public issues and finding real solutions to people’s problems instead of misleading the public with empty promises.”
The criticism comes amid ongoing debates about J&K’s political status and rights following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Local leaders have increasingly voiced concerns about the pace and direction of promised reforms in the region.TDD
