SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Monday accused the BJP of neglecting Jammu and Kashmir’s core issues and diverting attention from its failures. He said the National Conference (NC) remains the only party steadfastly defending the rights and dignity of the people.Speaking to reporters ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls, Choudhary said NC’s three candidates would represent J&K’s voice in Delhi. “Those winning from the NC will speak for Jammu and Kashmir in Parliament,” he said.He criticised the BJP for ignoring unemployment and public grievances. “For 11 years, BJP hasn’t addressed real issues — only NC’s manifesto,” he remarked.
Reaffirming the NC’s commitment to restoring J&K’s statehood and constitutional status, he said, “We won’t accept this UT setup. Our fight is to regain our lost identity.”Citing Ladakh’s discontent with Union Territory status, Choudhary said even those who once celebrated it now feel betrayed.He also raised concerns over the plight of daily wagers and contractual workers, urging their regularisation.Taking a dig at BJP leaders, he said, “They act like Delhi’s mouthpieces, reading out whatever instructions come from there.” He further alleged that Mehbooba Mufti and BJP leaders “speak the same language dictated by the Centre.”Choudhary also praised journalists for continuing to speak the truth despite restrictions and pressure.
