Jammu: National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has publicly criticized the Indian government’s portrayal of progress in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), labeling the promises of a “New Jammu and Kashmir” as unfounded rhetoric that contrasts sharply with the region’s realities.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Abdullah expressed his concerns at a rally in Bani town, Kathua, where he pointed out the significant discrepancies between the claims of the BJP-led central government and the actual conditions faced by residents of IIOJK. He argued that despite the abrogation of Article 370, which was supposed to facilitate development, the region has seen negligible improvement. “The promised progress is nowhere to be found,” Abdullah stated, citing worsening shortages of essential services like electricity and water, coupled with rising costs.
Further challenging the central government’s narrative, Abdullah highlighted the deteriorating security situation across various districts from Bani to Samba, noting an increase in violent encounters and a resurgence of pro-freedom activities in areas previously considered stable.