JAMMUM Oct 12: Former Minister and senior BJP leader Bali Bhagat has sharply reacted to the recent statement of National Conference (NC) leader Mohammad Ramzan regarding alleged irregularities in the electoral process and the Election Commission of India (ECI), questioning the party’s moral authority to lecture the BJP on democracy.
Reacting to Ramzan’s remarks on the exclusion of voters from electoral rolls and the credibility of the Election Commission, Bhagat said the NC leadership must first introspect on its own political legacy and governance record before questioning democratic institutions.
“Those who have repeatedly enjoyed power in Jammu and Kashmir but have miserably failed to fulfil people’s aspirations are now preaching democracy to the BJP. Before pointing fingers at others, they must answer for their own record and explain what they have delivered for the people,” Bhagat said.
Bhagat alleged that the NC was attempting to divert public attention from its unfulfilled promises and shortcomings in governance by raising questions about the BJP and the Election Commission. He maintained that democratic principles should not be invoked selectively for political convenience.
Referring to Jammu and Kashmir’s controversial electoral history, the former minister also raised the issue of the 1986 elections and allegations of electoral manipulation and political collusion involving the then Congress establishment. He accused the NC leadership of overlooking this chapter while questioning the credibility of the electoral process today.
Taking particular exception to Ramzan’s remarks on the ECI, Bhagat said that if the National Conference genuinely believed that the 2024 Assembly elections were not free and fair, its leadership should be prepared to take responsibility for its position.
“If the National Conference genuinely believes that the 2024 elections were not free and fair, then let its leadership resign and recommend fresh elections. They cannot question the legitimacy of the electoral process on one hand and continue to enjoy the power and mandate arising from it on the other. The people deserve clarity, not political double standards,” he asserted.
The BJP leader further said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir expect accountable governance, development, employment opportunities, improved public services and meaningful action on their concerns rather than repeated political accusations.
He challenged the NC leadership to present its achievements before the public and explain how its policies and decisions have addressed the aspirations of ordinary citizens.
“Democracy is not merely about occupying positions of power; it is about delivering results, respecting institutions and remaining accountable to the public. Those who seek to question others must also be prepared to face questions about their own performance,” Bhagat added.
Bhagat reiterated that the BJP remains committed to democratic processes and constitutional institutions, urging the NC leadership to focus on constructive politics, public accountability and the development aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir.