SRINAGAR: Amidst promises that seem more like illusions and hollowness that echoes loud, the poor and downtrodden in far-flung and backward regions of Jammu and Kashmir feel let down by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). As the Congress Party’s Vikar Rasool Wani addressed a spirited gathering in Machil, North Kashmir, he minced no words in calling out the BJP Government at the Centre for its betrayal and failure on multiple fronts, leaving the neglected areas yearning for development, opportunities, and their due privileges.
In the heart of this picturesque yet forsaken landscape, Wani shed light on the hardships faced by the people in the absence of a democratic setup. The once-promising vision of a better future now seems overshadowed by the reality of bureaucratic control, depriving the masses of their democratic rights and leaving them unheard.
Surrounded by senior party leaders GN Monga (Ex MLC), Mohammad Anwar Bhat, Nazir Ahmad Lone, Mir Ruvais, Abdul Wahab, Dr Ghulam Nabi Lone, Gulsher Khan, Bashir Ahmad Khan, Firdous Wani, Arshid Ahmad Tantray, Showket Ahmad, and other prominent figures from Kupwara district, Vikar sounded the alarm on BJP’s divisive tactics. He cautioned the people, especially those belonging to Scheduled Tribes (STs), Pahari communities, Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), about falling into the trap of political exploitation. While the BJP plays the cards of regionalism, identity, and religious polarisation, the masses must stand vigilant against being used as mere pawns in the political chessboard.
Wani’s address accused the Modi Government of orchestrating an assault on the very fabric of J&K since it took the reins of power at the Centre. He made a heartfelt appeal to the people of border and far-flung areas to see through the deceitful policies and false assurances of the ruling party. While the BJP keeps peddling their grand visions of progress, the ground reality reveals a different tale altogether.
Expressing shock over the claims of development, Wani did not mince words in calling them hollow and baseless. The hard work put in by the previous UPA Governments, aimed at uplifting the region, has suffered severe setbacks under the current administration. Mere inauguration of already sanctioned projects doesn’t hide the harsh truth – J&K has been pushed to the brink, grappling with economic distress, rampant unemployment, and a lack of progress.
Reassuring the people of Machil and other marginalized areas, JKPCC Chief Vikar Rasool Wani affirmed that the Congress Party will continue to fight for their rights and deliver justice. With a staunch belief in the values of service and equality, the party pledges to be the voice of the voiceless and the hope of the neglected.
Monga, a seasoned Congress leader, questioned the delay in holding elections in J&K, where the absence of an elected Government has left the masses feeling isolated and unheard. The restoration of democracy stands as the key to bridging the divide between the people and administration.
In a passionate appeal, Senior Congress Leader Anwar Bhat urged the people to join hands with the Congress Party for a brighter future. With the spirit of unity, the Congress stands resolute in its mission to bring forth inclusive development and empower the neglected to rise above the shadows of negligence.
