Srinagar, Sept 15 (KNS): J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Monday launched a scathing critique on the Jammu and Kashmir government, accusing it of criminal negligence as Kashmir’s famed apple industry stares at catastrophic losses.

In his statement, Lone stated that apples meant for markets across India are rotting by the truckload while J&K government looks the other way. He said the situation has pushed thousands of growers to the brink, yet no remedial measures are forthcoming from those in power.

“The apples destined for the rest of the country are in a state of rot. Massive losses for the apple growers. Inclement weather is not the fault of the government. But sitting like a mute spectator and doing nothing is criminal,” he declared.

Directing his criticism at the Chief Minister, Lone said the time for “photo-ops and aimless wanderings” was over, urging her to stay back and engage with officials and stakeholders to chalk out an urgent rescue plan for the sector.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“My humble advice to CM sahib: Stop wandering aimlessly across the country. Sit with your officers and stakeholders and work out a strategy,” he said.

Turning his criticism on ministers, Lone accused them of abdicating their basic duties, reducing governance to routine transfers instead of rising to the occasion in a time of crisis.

“Ministerial responsibility does not start and end by transferring government officials to remote locations. It is much more. Ministerial responsibility is about leadership in the face of grave challenges. And your ministerial performance is an affront to democracy as a concept. You are as good as absent,” Lone charged. (KNS)