Farooq-Abdullah Unveils Election-Board for Jk Polls, Stresses Public Involvement

Farooq-Abdullah Unveils Election-Board for Jk Polls, Stresses Public Involvement

Asif Iqbal | January 8, 2024 | 10:47 PM IST | Jammu Kashmir, Politics | Follow on Google News

Farooq-Abdullah Unveils Election-Board for Jk Polls, Stresses Public Involvement.image/PTI

Farooq-Abdullah Unveils Election-Board for Jk Polls, Stresses Public Involvement

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah announced on Monday the establishment of an election board tasked with selecting candidates for the imminent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a public gathering on the outskirts of Jammu, Abdullah emphasized the importance of including the views of the union territory’s residents in the candidate selection process.

The general elections are slated for April-May, and the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in December upheld the central government’s move to revoke the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370. The court directed that assembly elections be conducted by September 30, 2024.

Abdullah assured the audience in Baran village, Bhalwal block, that the newly formed election board aims to involve the people in decision-making. He stressed the need for public input in choosing candidates who will address local concerns and urged for the community’s support.

The NC chief disclosed that constituency incharges have been appointed across Kashmir, with a similar process set to be completed in Jammu by January 20. This arrangement allows residents to connect with representatives to voice their issues and concerns.

Taking a veiled swipe at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Abdullah refuted accusations that the NC sympathizes with Pakistan and maintains links with terrorists. He highlighted the sacrifices made by his party members, with over 1,500 ministers, leaders, and workers having lost their lives to terrorism.

Abdullah recounted a personal experience from 2001 when terrorists targeted the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in Srinagar. He emphasized the commitment of the NC to India and dismissed allegations of sympathizing with Pakistan.

The NC leader also addressed historical perspectives, pointing out that the last Dogra ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh, had sought an independent stance for Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. Abdullah attributed the region’s integration with India to the support of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and the NC.

Abdullah criticized certain parties for misleading the public on issues like legislation related to the return of individuals from Pakistan, clarifying that it is the prerogative of the Indian government to decide on such matters.

Further, Abdullah questioned the appointment of outsiders in key positions within the police and universities in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed concerns about the lack of public access to the civil secretariat, citing a breakdown in communication between bureaucrats and the public.

The NC leader also criticized the decision to supply electricity to Rajasthan from the Rattle Power Project for 40 years, arguing that it adversely affects the people of Jammu and Kashmir facing an electricity shortage. Abdullah questioned the fulfillment of promises to provide 24×7 electricity when local cities and villages are grappling with power shortages.

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Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.