Suhail Rather

Bandipora, Jan 29(KNS): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ashok Koul on Thursday criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alleging that the NC-led government failed to adequately respond to the heavy snowfall in Kashmir.

Speaking at a party workers’ convention in Bandipora, Koul said large parts of the Valley were facing blocked roads, prolonged power outages and disrupted essential services, while the Chief Minister was reportedly skiing in Gulmarg.

“At a time when villages remain cut off and people face severe hardship, leadership demands presence among the public, not leisure activities,” he said.

Koul also criticised political parties in Jammu and Kashmir for decades of violence, saying ordinary people bore the brunt while politicians ensured safety and comfort for their own families.

“Today, there is peace. Mothers no longer fear that their sons will be killed if they step outside. This change has come because of firm action against elements working against the country,” Koul said, referring to the improved security situation in the region.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Recalling the killing of BJP leader Waseem Bari, along with his father and brother, in Bandipora in 2020, Koul termed it a result of systemic failure and said they were “innocent people whose only fault was serving the public.”

He further alleged that MLAs from Bandipora, Sonawari and Gurez constituencies were absent during the snowfall crisis and urged elected representatives to remain present with people during emergencies.

Koul expressed disappointment over the state budget, saying it offered “no relief to the common citizen” and claimed public expectations remained unfulfilled.
Reiterating his criticism of the Chief Minister, Koul said: “Leadership means solving public problems, not enjoying leisure when citizens are suffering,” and called for greater accountability from those in power during times of crisis.(KNS).