JAMMU: Senior National Conference (NC) leader and Provincial President for Jammu, Rattan Lal Gupta, on Wednesday reaffirmed the party’s commitment to inclusive development, public welfare and regional balance, asserting that the people of Jammu would receive their rightful share in development initiatives, resources and government welfare programmes.
Reacting to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) statements on the recent cabinet reshuffle, Gupta accused the party of misleading the public by giving an administrative exercise a political and communal colour. He maintained that cabinet reshuffles are a normal part of democratic governance, intended to strengthen administration, improve governance and enhance the delivery of public services.
Gupta pointed out that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had retained Surinder Choudhary as Deputy Chief Minister in the latest reshuffle, ensuring the continued representation of the Jammu region in the Council of Ministers.
Taking aim at the BJP-led government at the Centre, Gupta questioned the party’s position on representation in the Union Cabinet, asking how many Muslim ministers were part of the Central Cabinet. He alleged that the BJP’s criticism of the reshuffle raised questions about the consistency of its own position on representation and communal considerations.
Emphasising the National Conference’s secular credentials, Gupta said the party believed in the principles of unity, equality and justice for all, irrespective of religion, caste, region or community. He asserted that the NC had consistently sought public support on the strength of its policies, performance and commitment to secular values.
Gupta further said that the NC-led government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah remained committed to addressing the genuine concerns of Jammu’s residents, particularly in critical sectors such as roads and infrastructure, drinking water, electricity, healthcare, education, employment and other essential civic amenities.
Responding to the BJP’s narrative about a possible split within the National Conference, Gupta dismissed speculation over alleged internal divisions, saying such claims would do little to resolve the pressing issues confronting the public. He asserted that the party remained focused on strengthening its organisational structure, preserving unity and fulfilling its commitments to the people.
Reiterating his confidence in the party’s organisational future, Gupta said the National Conference would continue to grow stronger while working for the welfare of all communities. He stressed that Jammu must receive its rightful share of development, resources and public welfare initiatives, underlining the importance of equitable regional development.
Gupta also called on political parties to prioritise constructive political engagement and substantive public issues rather than, as he alleged, disseminating misleading narratives about the functioning of the elected government.
He reiterated that the National Conference’s stated priorities remained inclusive development, equitable representation, improved public services and the welfare of all communities across Jammu and Kashmir.


