Srinagar, Oct 05 (KNS): Former SMC deputy mayor Sheikh Imran on Thursday came down heavily on National Conference for calling itself main opposition party in Jammu and Kashmir, saying that the appointment of its leader Sheikh Abdullah was without elections.
In a statement to KNS, Sheikh Imran said that the current appointment of the Lieutenant Governor in Jammu and Kashmir is in accordance with the Indian Constitution but conversely, the appointment of Sheikh Abdullah as Chief Minister by Delhi, a role typically elected rather than appointed, is deemed to be illegal.
He said that the legality of this appointment is a contentious issue, with his assertion being that it was unlawful because it did not adequately represent the will of the Kashmiri people.
"It's noteworthy that the party whose leader was appointed without elections now claims to be in opposition, which presents a paradox within the democratic framework."
He added that furthermore, it's important to note that there have been allegations of various illegalities committed by Delhi in the past to ensure the survival of the NC. "These allegations include the misuse of government machinery, from Raj Bhawan to Delhi's administrative apparatus, at different points in time."
Imran said that the fact that the NC now positions itself as the opposition is driven by the belief that elections under current circumstances will be conducted fairly and without undue influence, which contrasts with their experiences in the past.
"This perception has influenced their political stance today. In the eyes of many Kashmiris, whether it's the appointment of a Chief Minister or a Governor, both are seen as part of a larger issue. The overarching desire is for free and fair elections that would allow the will of the people to prevail."
He said that in this scenario, the aspiration of general public is to replace NC through democratic means, enabling the voice of the people to be accurately represented in the governance of the region. (KNS)