Peoples Conference president and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone on Thursday accused the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party of adopting a double speak over the ongoing anti-drug crackdown and demolition drives against alleged drug peddlers.
He said that while the central leadership of both parties publicly criticise such actions in Srinagar, their MLAs were seen endorsing the Lieutenant Governor’s remarks in other districts, calling the contradictory stand an attempt to mislead the people of Kashmir.
In a statement, Lone accused the NC and PDP of “misleading the people of Kashmir” through what he described as contradictory politics and selective narratives.
“In today’s digital era, political double standards can no longer remain hidden. NC and PDP leaders make one statement in Srinagar and entirely different statements in districts like Kupwara, Baramulla and Budgam,” he said.
Referring to the ongoing anti-drug crackdown and demolition drives against alleged drug peddlers, Lone pointed out that while the central leadership of NC and PDP publicly condemn such actions in Srinagar, their MLAs were seen applauding the Lieutenant Governor’s remarks in other districts.
He questioned how party leaders could oppose actions publicly while their representatives support them elsewhere, calling it “a mockery of the people.”
Since the start of “Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir (Drug-free Jammu and Kashmir)” campaign Police demolished several residential and commercial properties linked to alleged drug peddlers, saying the action was aimed at sending a “clear and unequivocal message” against narcotics trade. However, recently J&K Health Minister Sakina Itoo accused the police of using the anti-drug campaign to “target the people.” Only yesterday, an Independent MLA Sheikh Khurshid, boycotted Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s anti-drug foot march in Kupwara accusing government of targeting innocent people in the name of the anti-drug campaign.
PC president Lone also criticized the recent debate surrounding liquor bans in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing both NC and PDP of “political drama” and “electoral deception.” He said neither party imposed a ban while in power despite repeatedly raising the issue during elections.
According to him, the controversy is merely a diversion from larger political questions, including the Rajya Sabha elections.
On corruption allegations and transfer-related bribery claims raised by Mehbooba Mufti, Lone alleged that corruption in transfers has reached unprecedented levels. He sarcastically remarked that “transfers” should be included in the government’s industrial policy because of the scale of money allegedly involved.
