Leader of Opposition Criticizes National Conference’s Governance Record
Jammu & Kashmir, 10 April 2025: A Clash of Statehood Visions
Leader of Opposition (LoP) and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma has launched a sharp critique of the National Conference (NC), accusing the party of misusing its power during its tenure as a full-fledged state government. Sharma emphasized that the BJP’s vision for statehood restoration in Jammu and Kashmir is fundamentally different from that of the NC, which he accused of fostering oppression and divisiveness during its rule.
Sharma’s Criticism of NC’s Governance
Speaking to reporters, Sharma alleged that the NC’s governance record was marred by targeted killings, massacres, and widespread harassment of the people. “When NC had the police and a full state, how did they treat the people here? You must have seen it yourself—many massacres, many targeted killings happened. That happened when the National Conference was in power,” Sharma stated.
He further accused the NC of advocating for a “separatist statehood” that aligns with divisive narratives. “We will never, at any cost, accept the National Conference’s version of separatist statehood,” Sharma remarked.
BJP’s Vision for Statehood
Sharma outlined the BJP’s stance on statehood restoration, emphasizing that it would only be considered after the complete eradication of terrorism and separatism in the Union Territory. “Today, separatism has declined, stone-pelting and terrorism have ended. If there are still any remnants of this, we want to uproot them completely. After that, there will be statehood restoration,” he explained.
He added that the BJP envisions a state where every citizen prospers and lives in peace, free from the fear and oppression that he claims characterized NC’s rule.
Political Fallout
Sharma’s remarks have further intensified the political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir, where the demand for statehood restoration remains a contentious issue. The NC has yet to respond to Sharma’s allegations, but the party has consistently advocated for the immediate restoration of statehood, arguing that it is essential for the region’s democratic and developmental aspirations.
Looking Ahead
As the debate over statehood restoration continues, the contrasting visions of the BJP and NC highlight the deep political divides in Jammu and Kashmir. The focus remains on how these differing approaches will shape the region’s future governance and stability.
