Jammu, 28 April (H.S.): National Conference (NC) additional general secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today said that the prevailing “dual control” in governance is harming the interests of Jammu and Kashmir by weakening accountability and delaying decision-making.

Addressing a public meeting at Garhi in Jammu North Assembly Constituency under the chairmanship of senior NC worker Dev Dass, Sadhotra criticized the BJP-led Central Government for the delay in restoring statehood, despite assurances made in Parliament and submissions before the Supreme Court of India. He also expressed concern over the delay in approving business rules.

Sadhotra alleged that the BJP has failed to meet the expectations of the people of Jammu, who had extended significant electoral support in 2024 in the hope of responsive governance and restoration of democratic structures. He said the people across regions are bearing the brunt of the present administrative arrangement.

Highlighting the initiatives of the Government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Sadhotra said efforts are underway to improve ease of living and address public concerns. He cited welfare measures such as enhancement of marriage assistance for poor girls from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, 200 units of free electricity to AAY families and free bus travel for women.

He further said that the Government’s plan to fill 25,000 vacancies in departments would boost employment opportunities for educated youth and contribute to economic stability.

Sadhotra urged youth and economically weaker sections to take advantage of welfare schemes. He assured that local issues raised during the meeting, including the upgradation of a middle school and construction of a road to Shamshan Ghat Jung Wadi, would be taken up for early resolution.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar