Nothing in the hands of NC Govt, people's suffering continues: Usman Majid

• Says Congress U-Turn on Article 370, a betrayal

SRINAGAR: Former Minister and MLA Bandipora, Usman Majid, on Monday, criticized the National Conference (NC) government for its failure to address the pressing issues faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a workers' convention in Bandipora, Majid accused the NC government of being ineffective, stating that "nothing is in the hands of the NC government," and accused them of being unable to resolve even their internal disputes with the Congress party.  

Speaking at the convention held at the Bandipora Auditorium, Majid said, “People did not vote in the recently concluded elections for drains and footpaths. These are routine responsibilities that respective departments have carried out for years. Even the LG administration has managed these tasks over the past five years when there was no elected government in Jammu and Kashmir.

What people expected was genuine governance and development, but those hopes have been crushed, leaving them high and dry.”  Majid also criticized the Congress for backtracking on its earlier stance regarding Article 370. “While Congress once championed the restoration of Article 370, they have now reduced their promise to mere statehood—a demand that even the BJP-led central government has made.

The real issue is Article 370, on which Congress has compromised and surrendered. They sought votes in the name of 370, but after the elections, they changed their stance and started echoing the BJP’s language,” he asserted.  He lambasted all political parties for resorting to religious politics and exploiting sensitive issues like Articles 370 and 35A for electoral gains. “Restoration of Article 370 remains a distant dream, especially under the current leadership of state parties. People have been misled by promises that were never intended to be kept,” he remarked.  

Majid expressed concerns about the governance structure in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the limitations of the current Chief Minister. “Despite the people voting in large numbers and putting their trust in the democratic process, the Chief Minister remains powerless. The LG administration continues to hold all significant powers, effectively sidelining the elected representatives. This undermines the spirit of democracy,” he said.  

Advocating for grassroots governance, Majid emphasized the importance of panchayat elections. “We are ready for panchayat elections because panchayat representatives are essential for a robust governance model. Their involvement will bring governance closer to the people and ensure accountability at the local level,” he said.  On his decision to remain independent, Majid explained, “Congress had kept their doors open for me, but I chose not to join them.

My priority has always been to serve my people. Joining a political party would have limited my ability to work independently for the welfare of my constituency. I am not a politician seeking power; I am a representative of my people.”  Majid also called for immediate reforms to end unnecessary political transfers and interventions in administrative offices. He warned the administration against any bias or discrimination towards the people of Bandipora, particularly his workers.

“Officials must treat people fairly and without bias. If such practices of favoritism continue, I will stand firmly with my people and knock on every door to ensure justice for Bandipora,” he added.  Encouraging the youth to participate in the political landscape, Majid emphasized their role in shaping the region’s future. “The youth must step forward to learn, engage, and actively contribute to political scenarios.

Only with the involvement of young and dynamic minds can we address the pressing issues that matter most to the people,” he remarked.Majid urged political parties to focus on meaningful manifestos and deliver on their promises rather than resorting to empty rhetoric. “Work on your manifesto and make it a tool for real change. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve better leadership, better policies, and, above all, results,” he added.