Budgam, Nov 8 (JKNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that the roots of Jammu & Kashmir’s political crisis lie in the 2014 PDP–BJP alliance, asserting that the “real damage began the day PDP invited the BJP into J&K’s power structure.”
Talking to reporters in Budgam, CM Omar as per news agency JKNS, urged consumers to install smart meters if they wish to continue receiving the government’s 200-unit electricity concession. “The rule is very simple install meters and get the benefit; refuse them and you pay the full tariff. The choice lies with the consumer,” he said, adding that the administration had already removed non-functional and duplicate meters.
Omar launched a sharp attack on the BJP, saying no party had inflicted as much harm on J&K. “We were pushed from a State to a Union Territory. PDP campaigned throughout 2014 saying they would keep BJP out, but after winning, they partnered with the same BJP. That alliance changed everything,” he remarked.
He said the National Conference remained firm on its stand. “We are the only political party that refused to compromise with the BJP. We are paying a price for it, but we will continue to fight,” he said.
Chief Minister also accused the erstwhile PDP-led coalition of imposing GST in the region. “The decline did not start in 2019. It started when PDP brought BJP into government. Has PDP ever expressed regret for that alliance?” he questioned, saying that parties like PDP, BJP and Apni Party were now unfairly targeting the NC.
On the Nagrota bypoll, Omar said PDP and others avoided the contest deliberately. “Congress took four days and still backed out. We had to field our own candidate,” he said.
Outlining upcoming development plans, Omar said the government intended to establish a university and a BCCI cricket academy and stadium in Kashmir, calling Budgam the most strategically feasible location due to its proximity to the airport, railway line and bypass.
He said he had continued developmental work in Budgam even after vacating the seat. “I spent more than ₹110 crore on local infrastructure, macadamisation and sports facilities. With Aga Mahmood as MLA, Budgam will witness a fresh phase of development,” he said.
Highlighting government initiatives, Omar said several promises had been fulfilled, including free bus travel for women, enhanced marriage assistance, exam-calendar reforms and stamp-duty waivers.
Appealing for support, he said, “On November 11, press the NC button and say Bismillah. Elect Aga Mahmood when you choose him, you get me as well.”
Responding to questions, the Chief Minister said North Kashmir had been left without representation as MP Engineer Abdul Rashid continued to remain in jail. On remarks made by Rashid’s son Abrar regarding alleged 1987 rigging, Omar said he was not even born at the time. He said Abrar should instead clarify why the region remained unrepresented despite his father’s win.
Omar reiterated that meters were optional but essential for the concession. “If people don’t want meters, they can certainly opt out but then the 200-unit relief will not apply,” he added. (JKNS)
