Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 11: National Conference Provincial President, Rattan Lal Gupta today launched a sharp critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of pursuing “anti-youth policies” that have contributed to rising drug abuse among young people.
Gupta made these remarks while addressing a meeting organized by the Jammu Urban ST Cell under the leadership of District President Choudhary Nadeem, where new office bearers were announced.
Gupta emphasized that the current leadership under Omar Abdullah is restoring momentum to development initiatives, ensuring equitable access to jobs, education, and growth opportunities for tribal communities. He also criticized BJP and PDP for what he termed “political theatrics,” questioning their silence during instances when tribal families allegedly faced displacement.
“The National Conference has delivered on the ground-be it mobile schools, tribal hostels, reservations, or meaningful representation in governance. We have empowered communities, not displaced them,” he asserted.
Turning to the issue of drug addiction, Gupta described it as a “serious and growing menace” directly linked to policy failures of the BJP. He pointed out that no new rehabilitation centers were established during what he called the party’s prolonged misrule.
“Addressing drug abuse requires a multi-pronged strategy-creating employment opportunities, developing sports infrastructure, encouraging creative engagement, and strengthening rehabilitation systems,” he said and added, “Omar-led Government is actively working on all these fronts and remains committed to safeguarding the future of our youth.”
Gupta expressed confidence that the new team would strengthen the party’s outreach and organizational presence across the region. Prominent attendees included MLA Gulabgarh Er Khursheed, MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Provincial Secretary Jammu and Abdul Gani Malik former Minister and Zonal President Udhampur Reasi Zone.
Addressing the meeting Engineer Khursheed and Arjun Singh Raju reiterated that sustainable development, inclusive governance, and youth empowerment remain at the core of the National Conference’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir.
Among others who were present included : Vijay Lochan -Chairman SC Cell, Abdul Gani Teli- Chairman OBC Cell, Laxmi Datta, Rakesh Singh Raka, Mehmood Ahmad Rizvi, Vikash Choudhary, Wali Mohd, Hanief Choudhary, Alla Rakha, Maqbool Ahmad, Fareed Hussain, Haji Maqbool Choudhary, Haji Amin-Ud Din Khassana, Abdul Rafiq, Mohd Mansha, Riyaz Choudhary and Fareed Ahmad.
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