Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Jammu and Kashmir Education and Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on former chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti, accusing her of being “hungry for power” and holding her responsible for the loss of Article 370, statehood, and the prevailing situation in the Union Territory.
Speaking to reporters, Itoo alleged that Mufti had rejected an unconditional offer of support from National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah that was aimed at keeping the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) out of power in Jammu and Kashmir.
“When she was in government with the BJP and when the BJP removed her, Farooq Abdullah offered her unconditional support. He said we do not need any ministry or office, but keep the BJP away. She rejected that support because she wanted to remain in power,” Itoo said.
The minister claimed that Mufti’s decision to ally with the BJP ultimately contributed to the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status.
“Today there is no statehood, no Article 370, no Article 35A, no jobs. Thousands are in jail. People have lost their homes and authority. She has destroyed Jammu and Kashmir,” Itoo alleged.
Referring to political developments following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Itoo said Dr Farooq Abdullah had once again called for a united political platform involving all parties, but claimed that Mehbooba Mufti chose not to participate.
“She only wants power. She is trying to regain power. She has no sincerity or loyalty towards the people. She has destroyed Jammu and Kashmir,” the National Conference leader said.
Commenting on recent demolition and anti-encroachment drives, Itoo also criticised the BJP-led administration and questioned what she described as selective enforcement against economically weaker sections.
“Why are the poor always targeted? How many BJP leaders and MLAs have occupied thousands of kanals of land? Why is no action taken against them? The poor are always targeted, which is very unfortunate,” she said.
Reiterating her party’s political commitment, Itoo said the National Conference remains steadfast in its pursuit of the restoration of statehood, Article 370, and the distinct identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The National Conference will continue its struggle for the restoration of the rights and identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” she added.
