SRINAGAR, Sep 23 (PTI) – Jammu and Kashmir’s Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary addressed press concerns on Tuesday regarding the government’s capabilities amidst numerous ongoing challenges. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve, stating, “Some people want us to resign, but we will not show our backs.” Choudhary emphasized the commitment of the National Conference government to work for the rights of the people despite operating under a union territory structure with limited powers.
Speaking from Ganderbal district, Choudhary responded robustly to inquiries about whether the elected government has fulfilled its election promises. He explained that the current governance framework lacks the autonomy typically associated with a state government, attributing this limitation to the past tenure of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). “The special status and statehood we lost because of the PDP means we operate with restricted resources and authority,” he added.
Further stressing the dual governance structure, Choudhary noted that there exists a blend of an elected government and an appointed administration which complicates the governance process. Despite these challenges, he clarified that his government remains dedicated to addressing the pressing issues facing the population.
Choudhary called upon the public to recognize their mandate, reminding them, “We have been elected for five years, not just ten months. After a year, you can judge us on the promises we have kept.” He assured that the government seeks to uphold commitments made by party leaders, including National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
In response to questions surrounding the restoration of statehood and Article 35A during the upcoming assembly session, Choudhary revealed that these issues were extensively discussed in a cabinet meeting held earlier that day. He expressed particular frustration with the Lieutenant Governor’s administration for seeming inattentive to operational protocols, stating, “Leave aside statehood; it seems that the LG has been negligent concerning operational rules. Yes, your questions are valid, but you must understand our circumstances.”
Choudhary further criticized opposition parties, particularly the BJP and PDP, accusing them of failing the development needs of Jammu and Kashmir during their coalition rule from 2015 to 2018. He remarked, “While both parties claim significant development efforts over the last 11 years, one must question why issues like road widening and traffic congestion remain unresolved.”
By reiterating his administration’s commitment to structural reform and development, Choudhary indicated that the National Conference government recognizes the urgent needs of its constituents. “We will not remain idle as the previous administrations have done, leaving essential issues unaddressed,” he concluded. As Jammu and Kashmir grapples with its political evolution, the eyes of the nation remain on its leaders to navigate these turbulent times with adeptness and integrity.
