Examiner Bureau| Baramulla:
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday launched a strong critique of the National Conference-led government headed by Omar Abdullah, accusing it of failing to honour the mandate of the people despite receiving significant electoral support.
Addressing a party convention in Baramulla, Mufti said that rising unemployment has left the youth of Jammu and Kashmir facing an uncertain future.
“Despite being qualified, many young people remain without jobs. This has caused deep anxiety among families, and in some cases, has contributed to rising drug abuse,” she said.
She alleged that the government has not fulfilled key promises, including the commitment to provide 200 units of free electricity. “Instead, major power projects are being allocated to outside entities, while local assurances remain unfulfilled,” she added.
Referring to her outreach initiative “Kath Baat,” Mufti said her interactions across Kashmir revealed widespread stress and concern among the public. She also raised issues related to restrictions on religious and community activities, alleging that certain practices are facing increasing scrutiny.
Highlighting concerns of the Sikh community, she said greater attention and support are needed to address their issues.
Responding to criticism over PDP’s past alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, Mufti maintained that her party did not compromise on the rights of the people during its tenure.
She also accused the current administration of failing to protect land and employment rights, contrasting it with measures taken during the PDP government, including the opening of the Srinagar–Muzaffarabad trade route, which she said had benefited traders before its closure.
Mufti further highlighted the challenges faced by fruit growers, alleging delays in transportation on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, which, according to her, have impacted the horticulture sector.
Urging people to remain hopeful, she said that difficult phases do not last indefinitely. “Justice will prevail, and people must continue to hold on to hope,” she added.
