Criticizes Congress Over EVMs and Tackles BJP’s Dynastic Politics Hypocrisy.

||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh December 16,2024 ||

JAMMU: In a series of compelling announcements and sharp political remarks, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah laid out key policies and opinions, addressing power reforms, employment generation, and the contentious debates around Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and dynastic politics. His statements, delivered during interviews and public engagements, mark a decisive moment for the National Conference government and set the stage for political discourse in the region.

Powering Through Promises: Free Electricity from March 2025…

Delivering on a significant election promise, Omar Abdullah announced that 200 units of free electricity would be provided to the people of Jammu and Kashmir from March next year. Speaking to a national Hindi news channel, he emphasized the government’s current focus on ensuring maximum power supply during the harsh winter months.

“We will provide free units of electricity to the people from March next year. Presently, in the harsh winters, our focus is to give maximum electricity supply to the people,” Abdullah said. This initiative, part of the National Conference’s election manifesto, aims to alleviate energy concerns in the region, particularly during the grueling winter months.

Jobs in the Pipeline: Vacancies Referred to Recruitment Agencies…

Addressing concerns about unemployment, Omar reassured the public about the government’s commitment to job creation. He stated that numerous vacancies had already been referred to recruitment agencies and reiterated his intent to fulfill all electoral promises within the five-year tenure.

“We will fulfill all promises made to the people in five years and produce our record to the people before seeking votes next time,” he asserted, emphasizing accountability and transparency.

Taking a Stand: Omar’s Swipe at Congress on EVM Controversy…

In a direct critique of the Congress party’s stance on EVMs, Omar Abdullah dismissed objections raised against the voting machines, calling for consistency in political arguments. “When you get a hundred-plus members of Parliament using the same EVMs, and you celebrate that as a victory, you can’t then turn around and say you don’t like the EVMs because the results aren’t in your favor,” he remarked.

He defended the integrity of EVMs and urged opposition parties to refrain from using them as scapegoats for electoral defeats. “If you have problems with the EVMs, then you should be consistent in those problems,” he said.

Responding to suggestions that his remarks aligned with the BJP’s stance, Omar retorted, “God forbid! No, it’s just that… what’s right is right.” He underscored his commitment to principles over partisanship, even citing his support for the Central Vista project, which he called a “damn good thing.”

He also shared a personal perspective, recalling his loss in the Lok Sabha elections earlier this year and his subsequent victory in the Assembly polls, without attributing outcomes to voting mechanisms. “One day voters choose you, the next day they don’t. I never blamed the machines,” he said.

Dynastic Politics: A Critique of BJP’s Double Standards…

Turning his attention to the BJP’s frequent criticism of dynastic politics, Omar Abdullah labeled it political hypocrisy. He argued that the BJP selectively targets dynasties among its opponents while remaining silent on those within its allied parties.

“The BJP only seems to oppose political dynasties when it’s convenient. They have no issues with dynastic politics among their allies,” he said, highlighting the ruling party’s inconsistency.

Reflecting on his own political lineage, Abdullah stated that belonging to a political family does not guarantee success. “Belonging to a political family is not a lifelong ticket for success. And I don’t need to point towards anybody else. I’ll just talk about myself. I lost an election this year,” he remarked, referring to his Parliamentary defeat.

His sons, Zamir and Zahir, who actively campaigned with him during the Assembly elections, have also gained attention for their commentary on critical issues, particularly the abrogation of Article 370. However, Omar made it clear that they would have to carve out their own political paths. “Nobody is going to give them anything on a plate,” he said.

“Politicians Are Glorified Daily Wagers”…

Reflecting on the transient nature of political careers, Omar Abdullah emphasized the need for financial independence outside politics. “As elected representatives, we are basically glorified daily wagers. We are here today. We will probably not be there tomorrow,” he said.

He encouraged his sons to maintain professional careers alongside their political aspirations, drawing parallels with fields like acting and sports, where performance ultimately determines success. “Some get recognized initially, but if you can’t perform, no one will carry you,” he concluded.

Shaping the Discourse:

Omar Abdullah’s remarks showcase a mix of pragmatism, political foresight, and sharp critiques of both allies and opponents. By addressing power reforms, employment opportunities, and contentious political issues, the National Conference leader has not only reaffirmed his government’s priorities but also positioned himself as a principled voice in a polarized political landscape.