Omar Govt committed to address developmental gaps in J&K: Rattan Lal Gupta

• Says neglect of Far-Flung areas acknowledged by PM Modi in His Mann Ki Baat

KATHUA: Advocate Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), raised serious concerns over the prolonged neglect of far-flung and hilly areas of District Kathua, which have suffered over the past decade under previous administrations. At the outset of the meeting, local NC leaders Tirath Ram District President Billawar (Org). apprised the senior functionaries of the challenges faced by residents in these remote regions, exacerbated by the apathy of earlier governments.He further  highlighted acute shortages in essential services such as healthcare, education, and basic civic amenities. "Areas like Bani, Duggan, Lohai Malhar, Machhadi, and Lohai have been particularly overlooked, lacking adequate health centers, functional government schools, and essential infrastructure," he said.

Addressing the workers' meeting at Dengi Sambli  Billawar of District Kathua , Rattan Lal Gupta stated that previous governments had done nothing to address the grievances of people in these remote areas. He noted that even the Prime Minister acknowledged this neglect during his Mann Ki Baat program when a young girl's viral social media post from Lohai brought attention to the deplorable condition of her government school. "Even after such a poignant appeal, the administration has failed to take corrective action," he remarked.

Emphasizing the proactive stance of the National Conference, Rattan Lal Gupta asserted, "Under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, the National Conference is dedicated to addressing these longstanding issues and ensuring the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir's underserved regions. Our party remains committed to bridging the developmental gap and uplifting those who have been ignored for far too long."

Earlier in the meeting, Jia Lal Gupta, a social activist and retired Assistant Executive Engineer, along with dozens supporters, joined the National Conference in the presence of senior party leaders. Welcoming the new members, Rattan Lal Gupta encouraged them to actively contribute to strengthening the party's foundation and working diligently for the betterment of the community.

Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, Provincial Secretary, urged party cadre to remain vigilant against anti-national elements attempting to create divisions within society. He called upon party workers and leaders to remain united in their efforts to bring about positive change and to continue advocating for the rights and welfare of the people. Bimla Luthra, former MLA and senior NC leader, criticized previous governments for their inaction regarding women's welfare. She commended the Omar Abdullah-led administration for introducing initiatives aimed at empowering women, such as providing free travel in government buses.

Tejinder Pal Singh Aman, Provincial President of the Youth National Conference, underscored Omar Abdullah's dedication to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the government's commitment to creating employment opportunities and fostering an environment conducive to the personal and professional growth of young people in the region. He reiterated the party's focus on skill development programs, job creation, and youth empowerment.

Pardeep Bali Provincial Secretary Jammu and Rakesh Singh Raka Vice President Central Zone, NC leaders, reaffirmed that the National Conference remains steadfast in its mission to uplift the marginalized and ensure equitable development across all regions of Jammu and Kashmir.

Among those who joined the party fold include: Varinder, Rashpal Singh, Sham Singh, Sudesh Kumar Sunil Sharma ,Gian Chand, Gafoor Ali, Anil Singh, Uttam Chand, andJarnail Singh. Among those who were present included: Sapna Gill Block President Jammu East Women Wing, Jyoti Akbar Block Vice President and others