Srinagar, Omar Abdullah, the Vice-President of the National Conference, expressed his surprise over the abrogation of Article 370, stating that he did not foresee the move until it actually occurred. This revelation was shared in a series of posts on the social media platform X, highlighting the unexpected nature of the decision that stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special constitutional status.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Abdullah recounted assurances from the Governor that had led him to believe there were no plans to abolish Article 370. His comments were made against the backdrop of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s promotion of a development narrative that he now criticizes as false. Omar Abdullah voiced his frustration in New Delhi over the failure to conduct Assembly elections in the region, five years after the significant constitutional change on August 5, 2019.
Abdullah, who was detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for his participation in elections, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the region, contradicting claims that the abrogation would solve the longstanding issues. He specifically mentioned the situation of Kashmiri Pandits, noting that their displacement was not due to Article 370, and their continued absence post-abrogation challenges the justifications provided for the constitutional change.
This candid reflection from a prominent political figure in Jammu and Kashmir sheds light on the complexities and unmet promises following the controversial decision, underscoring the need for a reevaluation of the policies and promises made in the wake of Article 370’s abrogation.
Karachi, The Karachi Development Authority (KDA) has embarked on a series of development and construction projects in Sarjani Town, aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure and providing basic facilities to its citizens. Director General of KDA, Naveed Anwar, during a four-hour visit to the area, emphasized the authority’s commitment to economic stabilization and the implementation of policies designed to increase revenue sources.
According to Karachi Development Authority, Anwar ordered immediate actions to improve local infrastructure, including the emergency carpentry of a road around KDA Flats in Sarjani Town. He also directed the establishment of a Bachat Bazar at the DA bus stand boundary wall to ensure the availability of affordable items to citizens during the month of Ramadan.
Furthermore, the Director General instructed the identification and auctioning of vacant flats, shops, and lands in Sarjani Town to enhance the organization’s income. He highlighted the importance of removing encroachments and utilizing the land for further development projects. Anwar’s directives also included the development of a stadium through public-private partnership to promote sports activities among the new generation.
The visit saw the participation of KDA’s senior officials, including Secretary Behzad Memon, Directors of Public Housing, Land, Finance, Bachat Bazar, and other departments. This initiative by the KDA signifies a move towards revitalizing Sarjani Town and contributing to the broader development and prosperity of Karachi.