Excelsior Correspondent
LAKHANPUR, June 20: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) commenced its campaign for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) polls with a convention at Lakhanpur.
Speaking at the gathering, Rattan Lal Gupta, senior NC leader and Provincial President Jammu, emphasized the alleged democratic deprivation faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir under central rule, which has extended for an unprecedented five years.
He expressed concern over the absence of Assembly elections during this period, depriving the people of their right to choose representatives and leading to disillusionment and instability.
Highlighting the Union Minister for Housing’s claims regarding industry, investment, and job creation in J&K, Gupta demanded concrete figures from the Central Government.
He criticized the Government for making contradictory statements and urged them to avoid misleading the public with inconsequential information.
Gupta also called for an end to wasteful spending on the Jammu Smart City project, citing instances of flooding during a mere hour of rain. He further criticized the monologue by LG Sinha under the guise of “Awaam Ki Awaz,” highlighting the Government’s alleged failure to address pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, water scarcity, power cuts, and the regularization of daily wagers.
Assuring the public of the NC’s commitment to their welfare, Gupta promised to repeal the undemocratically imposed property tax if the party assumes power in the upcoming ULB elections.
Gupta said that he and his party will continue to expose the “five years’ misrule of J&K” by the BJP Government and wouldn’t let its leadership succeed in spreading canards about the development.
Earlier, Ajeet Kumar, District President Kathua, and K K Bakshi, District Secretary, apprised the senior NC leader of the challenges faced by the people, including the lack of basic amenities and healthcare facilities, dilapidated roads, and a scarcity of government rations.
Party leaders Vijay Locah and Pardeep Bali also spoke on the occasion.
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