Srinagar, 11 October (H.S.): National Conference (NC) additional general secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today launched a sharp attack on the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, accusing him of behaving like a spokesperson of the Raj Bhavan instead of fulfilling his constitutional duty as a representative of the people.

In a strongly-worded statement, Sadhotra said that by defending the indefensible on issues of governance and dual control in the Union Territory, the LoP had exposed his party’s misplaced priorities and lack of concern for the aspirations of the people. Instead of questioning the prevailing administrative confusion and lack of accountability, Sharma appeared more interested in justifying the Raj Bhavan’s actions, he alleged.

The NC leader said that Sharma’s remarks were unbecoming of a person holding a vital constitutional position and reflected a poor understanding of J&K’s political and administrative complexities. By trivializing the NC’s historic contribution, particularly in the post-terrorism era, Sharma had shown ignorance and insensitivity, he said.

Sadhotra reminded that it was the NC that kept the flame of democracy alive during the most difficult decades, when several of its ministers, legislators, and workers sacrificed their lives to uphold democratic and secular values. Belittling that contribution, he said, was disrespectful and politically shallow.

Taking a dig at Sharma for questioning the demand for restoration of full statehood, Sadhotra said the BJP leader had exposed his party’s true stance. By casting doubts on the importance of statehood, he added, the LoP had indirectly endorsed the ongoing disempowerment of the people of J&K, contradicting assurances given in Parliament and before the Supreme Court.

Sadhotra also blamed the delay in approval of business rules by the Lieutenant Governor for creating confusion in governance, urging Sharma to raise such issues instead of defending the status quo. He called on the LoP to act responsibly and focus on restoring democratic institutions, ensuring accountability, and protecting public rights.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar