Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said that Jammu, which had received only hollow promises in the past, is now steadily moving towards inclusive and sustainable development and is now breathing easy under the government of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Speaking to a delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), led by district president Jammu, Chander Mohan Sharma here, Dr Abdullah said the elected government has not only restored public confidence in democratic processes but has also opened the corridors of power to the common people.
During the meeting, the delegation apprised the party president of various long-pending public issues that have accumulated over the past decade due to what they described as the misrule of the BJP.
The delegation also appreciated the corrective and developmental measures initiated by the Omar Abdullah-led government to reverse the setbacks suffered by Jammu city during the last ten years.
The delegation discussed organisational and party matters with Dr Abdullah, who assured them that the National Conference is fully cognisant of the hardships and challenges faced by the people during years of undemocratic governance.
“Omar Abdullah-led government is making rapid strides to restore people’s faith in democratic institutions,” he said.
Referring to the much-publicised Smart City project, Dr Abdullah remarked that a few days of rain and waterlogging had exposed the hollow claims surrounding it.
Highlighting the initiatives of the Omar Abdullah-led government, Dr Farooq Abdullah said that concrete steps are being taken for the protection and restoration of the Mubarak Mandi heritage complex, which suffered prolonged neglect.
He noted that free transport facilities for women have enhanced their mobility, the additional ration quota has eased the burden on poor families, and the restoration of the Darbar Move has revived economic activity and brought smiles to the faces of Jammu’s traders.
He further said ongoing and upcoming projects such as ropeways, riverside development, lake creation in Jammu city, and other initiatives will place Jammu firmly on the tourism map of the country.
Dr Abdullah urged the delegation to gear up for the forthcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) and panchayat elections and to strengthen the party’s public outreach.
He emphasized that special representation will be given to youth, particularly women, to ensure that policies and governance are aligned with their aspirations and needs.
