Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 1: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today criticized the Omar Abdullah-led Government for what it described as a lack of seriousness in fulfilling its promises, particularly its failure to reinstate two significant holidays in the annual holiday calendar of J&K.
Click here to watch video
Addressing reporters, PDP general secretary Khurshid Alam expressed disappointment over the Government’s inaction since its formation three months ago.
He accused the National Conference (NC) of neglecting issues of importance and disregarding Kashmir’s historical legacy, despite having a strong public mandate.
The PDP leader emphasized the emotional and historical importance of July 13, a date, he said, commemorating the sacrifices of martyrs who fought against autocracy.
“The people of Kashmir still remember the martyrs of July 13 by heart, but unfortunately, the NC Government has failed to make efforts to restore the holidays for Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and July 13,” he said.
Reflecting on the contributions of the July 13 martyrs, PDP General Secretary noted that they paved the way for democracy in J&K.
“Their honour was overlooked. They (NC) are in the Government, but they are ones issuing condemnations after these two holidays were again dropped from the list,” he said.
Reaffirming the PDP’s commitment to Kashmir’s historical and cultural legacy, he said the party remains steadfast in upholding the values of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and those who sacrificed their lives.
He stressed that Martyrs’ Day carries a profound emotional connection for the people of J&K
Alam criticized the NC Government for what he called a lack of seriousness in addressing the matter, describing its failure to restore the holidays as a sign of disconnect from public sentiment.
While acknowledging Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s historical significance, he stressed that the sacrifices of the martyrs hold even greater importance.
“Everyone was hopeful that these holidays, which were annulled, would be restored. However, the NC Government has failed to deliver on these expectations,” he stated.
Alam also accused the NC of selective silence, pointing out that while the party has advocated for restoring December 5 as a holiday, it has remained notably quiet about July 13.
He criticized the NC for raising the issue only after the holiday calendar was released, saying, “There was no visible effort from the NC Government to address the matter proactively.”
He further urged the NC Government to fulfill its pre-election promises. “What they have promised during elections must be fulfilled. Our party leadership is of the opinion that the Government must be given time to deliver, but they must. As of now, they appear non-serious.”
Follow our WhatsApp channel
