Altaf Bukhari slams NC Govt

Srinagar, May 10: Apni Party, President, Syed Altaf Bukhari on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference government, alleging “governance deficiency” in Jammu and Kashmir and claiming that even basic public issues remain unaddressed.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, the Apni Party president accused both the National Conference and the People’s Democratic Party of indulging in political rhetoric while failing to address people’s concerns.

“They both are the same, accusing each other of corruption. The biggest problem in Jammu and Kashmir after the formation of the government is governance deficiency. People are not able to get even ordinary work done,” Bukhari said.

He alleged that the government was failing to take responsibility for day-to-day governance issues affecting the public.

“Our youth are worried about employment. Daily wagers are worried. Development-related works are suffering. Somewhere there is no water supply, somewhere electricity issues persist, somewhere roads are in bad shape. Governance is about addressing these small but important issues,” he said.

Drawing a comparison with Tamil Nadu, Bukhari said governments that are serious about fulfilling promises act immediately after assuming office.

“Today you saw a government being formed in Tamil Nadu. The Chief Minister issued the first order regarding 200 units of free electricity. When a government wants to do something for people, it starts immediately,” he remarked.

Bukhari also expressed support for the administration’s anti-drug campaign and praised LG Manoj Sinha for taking personal interest in tackling the menace of narcotics in Kashmir.

“We support every effort against drugs. When this campaign started in Kashmir, we joined it along with the Lieutenant Governor. I congratulate the LG for personally taking interest in this issue,” he said.

However, he cautioned enforcement agencies against “over-enthusiasm” during anti-drug operations, particularly regarding demolition drives.

“Instead of breaking houses allegedly linked to drug peddlers, such properties should be used for public welfare — for schools, social welfare institutions or widows. What is achieved by demolishing them?” he asked.

The Apni Party leader suggested that vehicles and assets seized from drug smugglers should be auctioned and the money generated should be utilised for rehabilitation centres and welfare programmes.

On unemployment, Bukhari said governments alone cannot provide jobs to every youth and stressed the need for entrepreneurship and start-up support.

“All youth cannot get government jobs. No government can provide that. But they should be guided and supported towards start-ups and entrepreneurship. They need hand-holding and direction regarding which sectors they can work in,” he said, adding that entrepreneurship could become a sustainable employment avenue for educated youth.

Bukhari also backed the demand for closure of liquor shops in Jammu and Kashmir.

“There is no reason to keep liquor shops open in J&K. We support their closure,” he said.

Referring to future political battles, the Apni Party chief said his party would continue to contest elections at every level.

“We will fight politically everywhere — in panchayats, urban local bodies and Assembly elections. Victory and defeat are in the hands of God and the people,” he added.