Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah launched a scathing attack on the BJP in the Assembly today, questioning the party’s stance on the abrogation of Article 370, the role of the Maharaja, and the use of the Public Safety Act (PSA). He challenged the ruling party, asking whether removing special status had resolved all issues, especially when terrorism has increased in the Jammu region.
BJP’s Development Claims Under Fire
During his 40-minute speech in response to the Motion of Thanks to the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, Abdullah asked Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma to specify which development projects were impossible under Article 370. “AIIMS, IIT, IIM, and Ring Road projects were all initiated before 2019,” he stated, debunking BJP’s claims of improved development post-abrogation.
He further challenged the BJP’s narrative on terrorism, asking: “If Pakistan is responsible for terrorism, why blame Article 370? And if Article 370 was responsible, then why oppose talks with Pakistan?”
Increase in Terrorism Post Abrogation
Abdullah pointed out that during the NC-Congress Government, terrorism in Jammu had been controlled. “Now, terrorist attacks are happening in Reasi, Rajouri, and even against pilgrims. Can BJP deny this?” he questioned.
Article 370: A Fight on Two Fronts
The National Conference (NC) remains hopeful about Article 370’s restoration, both legally and politically. Abdullah reminded the House that the Supreme Court ruling is not the final word, hinting at a potential review. “During Rajiv Gandhi’s time, BJP had only two MPs. Did anyone then think they would be where they are today?”
Corruption and Jal Jeevan Mission Controversy
Targeting BJP’s claims of reduced corruption post-abrogation, Abdullah cited BJP’s own MLAs’ allegations about scams in Jal Jeevan Mission, mining, and land use policies. “If corruption ended, why are BJP leaders calling it ‘Jugadu Jeevan Mission’?” he asked.
The Debate on PoJK and China-Occupied J&K
Taking on External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statements about reclaiming PoJK, Abdullah challenged, “Who stopped you? Why only talk about PoJK? Why not bring back the part of Jammu and Kashmir occupied by China?”
Legacy of the Maharaja and Changing History
He defended Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy, stating that NC and Congress never insulted him. “He gave us this State. What did you do? You broke it into two UTs.”
He accused BJP of hypocrisy, saying, “They rename places across India, but in J&K, we never touched institutions named after the Maharaja.”
On the Abolition of July 13 and Sheikh Abdullah’s Birth Anniversary Holidays
Omar dismissed the cancellation of July 13 and December 5 holidays, stating that even if official holidays are scrapped, “their sacrifices cannot be erased.”
Statehood Will Be Restored Soon
Expressing confidence that J&K will regain statehood within a year, he remarked, “Next year’s Legislative Address will be delivered by a Governor, not an LG.” He emphasized that the loss of Statehood had lowered J&K’s political standing, noting that as CM of a full-fledged state, he ranked above a Union Cabinet Minister, but today he ranks below a Union MoS.
Commitment to Fulfilling Election Promises
Abdullah assured that his government will deliver on every promise made in their manifesto, from A to Z. He reiterated NC’s pledge to:
- Release political prisoners unjustly detained.
- Seek amnesty for detainees not involved in serious crimes.
- Address arbitrary termination of government employees.
A Strong Stand Against PSA
He criticized BJP’s defense of the PSA, arguing that using preventive detention laws suggests a weak legal case. “If you had solid evidence, why not use regular legal provisions instead of PSA?”
Business Rules Finalized for Smooth Governance
He revealed that J&K’s new business rules were finalized in a Cabinet meeting and submitted for Lieutenant Governor’s approval to ensure clarity in governance. “Until statehood is restored, we must ensure smooth functioning.”
Final Word: A Call for Justice and Dignity
He concluded by reaffirming NC’s commitment to statehood, dignity, and development, warning BJP that silencing voices will not suppress the demand for justice. “We live with our hope, and you live with yours. Who knows what the future holds?” he said.
