Sadhotra Slams BJP’s Diversionary Politics, Lauds CM’s Outreach in Flood-Hit Jammu

JAMMU: National Conference Additional General Secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party, accusing it of indulging in diversionary politics instead of addressing the plight of flood-hit people in Jammu.

Speaking during his visit to the rain-affected areas of Badyal Brahmana in R.S. Pura, Sadhotra criticised Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma for what he described as “the lowest political depth and insensitivity” in accusing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of not showing concern for flood-ravaged Jammu.

“It was because of the Chief Minister’s personal supervision and consistent engagement that the administration was fully geared up, which significantly minimised the sufferings of the affected population across the Jammu region,” Sadhotra said while interacting with residents.

He maintained that Sharma’s “unfounded allegations” were nothing but an attempt by the BJP to divert attention from its own failures. He pointed out that despite the catastrophic damage caused by torrential rains, Omar Abdullah’s quick response, regular reviews and visits to ground-zero areas had ensured timely rescue, relief and restoration operations.

Taking exception to what he termed as the BJP’s insensitivity, Sadhotra said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s just-concluded visit to Jammu had ended in disappointment for the people. “The announcement of just Rs 209 crore as relief is not only inadequate but an insult to the sufferings of rain-hit Jammu. This paltry sum has dismayed Jammuites, especially when seen against the massive damages and colossal loss caused by incessant rains and floods,” he said.

Sadhotra reminded that the people of Jammu had reposed their faith in the BJP by giving it a massive mandate in the 2024 Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly elections, but the outcome of Shah’s visit was “nothing short of betrayal”. “The people expected a substantial relief package, but instead they have been handed over mere peanuts. This indifference has deeply hurt public sentiments,” he added.

During his visit, Sadhotra spoke to senior officials, including the Principal Secretary PDD, urging regulated power supply in the affected areas, and the Chief Engineer R&B for immediate restoration of damaged roads, particularly the road leading to the cremation ground at Badyal Brahmana. He also called upon the Chief Engineer Flood Control to take preventive measures on a war footing as rains continued, and impressed upon the SDM South to complete the final assessment of agricultural land and crop losses in the Badyal Brahmana area so that compensation could be expedited.

Lauding the Chief Minister’s “remarkable leadership” during the crisis, Sadhotra said Omar Abdullah’s presence in affected areas, his interactions with sufferers, and his continuous monitoring of relief and restoration works reflected his deep concern for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Extending solidarity of the National Conference with the affected families, Sadhotra assured that the party would remain at the forefront in highlighting their concerns and pressing the government for adequate relief, rehabilitation and long-term preventive measures.