MENDHAR, Sep 12: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party spokesperson Raqeeq Khan today led a protest in Mendhar against the National Conference-led government headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, opposing the recent hike in electricity tariffs and alleging that several electoral commitments remain unfulfilled.
The protesters raised slogans against the government and burnt its effigy to register their opposition to the increased power tariff. Addressing the gathering, Khan said the tariff hike had further burdened the common people, particularly families already struggling with rising household expenses.
Khan demanded the immediate withdrawal of the order enhancing electricity tariffs and issued a 50-day ultimatum to the government. He warned that if the decision was not revoked within the stipulated period, the Apni Party would launch a mass public movement (Jan Andolan) across Jammu and Kashmir.
He further warned that the party would intensify its protests and stage black-flag demonstrations wherever the Chief Minister or the National Conference organises public programmes if the concerns raised by the people remain unresolved.
Khan also questioned the government over its alleged failure to fulfil the election promise of providing one lakh jobs. He alleged that instead of creating transparent employment opportunities for deserving youth, jobs were being provided through what he termed “back-door” arrangements favouring relatives and influential persons. He demanded transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.
Referring to another electoral commitment, Khan said the National Conference had promised 12 free LPG cylinders, but alleged that the benefit had not yet reached the people. He urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to honour the commitment made to voters.
The Apni Party spokesperson also raised concerns over development and restoration works in Mendhar. He alleged that tenders had not been opened for several weeks despite the urgent need for restoration works and claimed that projects were being delayed or rejected on considerations other than public interest. He called upon the administration, Deputy Commissioner and concerned Minister to ensure transparency and fairness in the tendering process.
Khan also demanded implementation of the alleged promise to provide Rs 5,000 assistance to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and urged the government to fulfil the commitment without further delay.
Highlighting local concerns, he raised issues including poor road conditions, inadequate water supply, deteriorating market infrastructure and problems faced by daily wagers. He said the Apni Party would continue to raise these matters and hold the government accountable for its promises and performance.
Khan also raised the issue of the CD Panchayat plan, alleging that although the plan had arrived, the process had not progressed. He questioned the delay in putting up the required banner and floating tenders for the proposed works. He appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene and ensure that the plan is approved and tenders are floated at the earliest so that development works can commence.
Giving the administration a 10-day deadline to address the CD Panchayat-related issue, Khan warned that failure to resolve it would lead to intensified protests against the government and National Conference programmes.
“The people have given the government enough time. We will continue to raise our voice against every issue affecting the common people and will oppose the government wherever necessary,” Khan said.
He asserted that the Apni Party would continue to stand with the people of Mendhar, Balakote and adjoining areas, raising their demands for affordable electricity, employment opportunities, better roads and water supply, transparent development works and fulfilment of electoral commitments.