- Cabinet reshuffle reflects political compulsions, not public welfare: BJP accuses NC of discriminating against Jammu
JAMMU: J&K BJP spokespersons Dr. Tahir Chowdhary and Rajni Sethi, accompanied by Media Incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, addressed a press conference at BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, launching a sharp attack on the NC-led government over its approach to national security, alleged political appeasement, regional discrimination and governance failures. The BJP accused the ruling dispensation of prioritising political interests and internal power equations over public welfare, national security and Jammu's legitimate aspirations.
Dr. Tahir Chowdhary said Jammu and Kashmir needs leadership with strong political will, an unwavering commitment to national security and equal concern for all regions. Expressing concern over the recent remarks and political conduct of NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah, he questioned the messaging emerging from the National Conference leadership, stating that any statement perceived as echoing Pakistan's narrative must invite serious public scrutiny.
“Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford a return to the dark days of terrorism, violence and uncertainty. The peace achieved through the sacrifices of security forces and innocent citizens must be protected at all costs. National security cannot become a casualty of political compulsions,” he asserted.
He said every elected government has a constitutional and moral responsibility to stand firmly against terrorism, separatism and attempts to destabilise the Union Territory. Political leaders must exercise responsibility and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions and the security framework.
Taking exception to the recent cabinet expansion, Dr. Tahir accused the NC government of neglecting Jammu's aspirations and failing to ensure equitable regional representation. He said Jammu, being an integral part of the Union Territory, cannot be treated as politically insignificant or excluded from meaningful participation in governance and decision-making. He added that the reshuffle, instead of improving administrative efficiency and inclusive governance, had further strengthened the perception of political discrimination against Jammu.
Commenting on reported resentment among NC legislators, including meetings involving over 20 MLAs, he said internal differences and political instability raised serious questions about the ruling party's cohesion and priorities. He urged the government to focus on unemployment, youth aspirations, administrative accountability and timely delivery of public services rather than allowing internal political disputes to overshadow governance. He reiterated that the progress achieved since 2019 must be safeguarded through firm action against terrorism, regional justice and accountable administration.
Rajni Sethi strongly criticised the cabinet reshuffle, questioning whether it served public welfare or merely managed internal political equations and appeased select leaders. She questioned the performance of ministers who had served for two years, asking what tangible achievements they could claim, and why the government had failed to present any performance report before the reshuffle.
She condemned reduction in Jammu's ministerial representation, terming it another example of political discrimination and asserting that the people of Jammu deserve equal respect, representation and participation in governance.
Referring to reports of over 20 NC MLAs holding internal meetings, Rajni Sethi attributed the growing resentment to Omar Abdullah's alleged arrogant and dictatorial functioning, sidelining of senior leaders and preference for junior leaders. She warned that internal discord, poor coordination and leadership instability would adversely affect administration and public welfare.
Questioning the government's claims on women's empowerment, she said the National Conference had failed to translate its tall promises into meaningful results for women.
Rajni Sethi concluded that the government's failure to fulfil public promises, growing internal discord and denial of adequate representation to Jammu reflected a serious governance crisis that could further undermine the NC's political future in Jammu and Kashmir.


