SRINAGAR, Apr 24: A day after Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma launched a sharp attack on the Omar Abdullah Government, the Chief Minister hit back accusing the BJP of admitting that statehood for J&K was being delayed as “punishment” because people voted for the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference.
The latest exchange was triggered after Sharma on Friday accused the Omar Abdullah-led government of “non-performance, corruption and misplaced priorities,” and being “busy in marathons, skiing and 5-star dinners.” Sharma also asserted that the demand for restoration of statehood should not be linked to any individual or political family, in an apparent reference to the Abdullahs.
“Statehood will come at its own time, but it cannot be tied to any one leader becoming chief minister,” LoP said on Friday.
Omar said on Saturday the BJP’s statements were a reaction out of nervousness due to a recent grand show in border areas of Nowshera in Rajouri district.
“Unnerved by the grand show in Naushera a few days ago, finally a bit of honesty from the BJP – the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for @JKNC_. So much for their tall promises & claims,” Omar said on X.
In a sharp jibe at Sharma, Omar also remarked that the Assembly functioned “more productively” in his absence, taking a swipe at the BJP leader who had recently returned from Assam.
“Welcome back from Assam Mr LoP. The assembly was quiet, and far more productive, without you ,” Omar added .
On Friday evening, NC spokesperson and MLA Tanvir Sadiq also took a swipe at Sharma, saying he was “about to file a missing report” for the party’s Leader of Opposition.
LoP Sharma on Friday said promises made by Omar Abdullah Government to the people – such as free LPG cylinders, 200 units of electricity, and employment for youth – remain unfulfilled. He questioned the Government’s focus, alleging that governance has taken a backseat while leaders remain visible only in marathons, skiing events and high-profile engagements.
The BJP leader further alleged an administrative breakdown, claiming there is no effective public outreach, departmental review, or visible presence of ministers on the ground. He also accused the administration of rampant corruption, alleging that common citizens were forced to pay bribes for routine work at various Government offices. (Agencies)
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