Anantnag, August 28:: Senior National Conference leader and Vice President Anantnag, Imran Amin Shah, today addressed a workers’ meeting at Housing Colony Khanabal, where he criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for what he described as its “politics of opportunism and selective memory” on public issues, particularly the electricity tariff revision.
Shah said that the PDP had repeatedly attempted to mislead the people of Jammu and Kashmir through political rhetoric and promises that, during its tenure in government, failed to translate into meaningful solutions on the ground.
“Today, when the government is taking steps to strengthen and modernise the basic electricity infrastructure, the PDP has once again chosen the path of political opportunism instead of engaging constructively on an issue that directly concerns the people,” Shah said.
He said the National Conference leadership, including the Hon’ble Chief Minister, had already clarified the position regarding the proposed electricity tariff revision. “Rather than creating confusion among the people, the PDP should explain its own record, particularly its Agenda of Alliance with the BJP,” he remarked.
Shah said that when the PDP was sharing power with the BJP, it had a significant opportunity to undertake meaningful reforms in the power sector and address Jammu and Kashmir’s long-standing electricity challenges. “Unfortunately, political convenience and the pursuit of power took precedence over resolving genuine public concerns. The PDP therefore has little moral ground today to lecture others on public welfare,” he said.
Referring to National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Shah said that he had faced political storms, imprisonment, adversity and repeated challenges throughout his long public life while remaining committed to the political and democratic aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Those who entered politics much later must remember that the political space they occupy today has been secured through the sacrifices, perseverance and commitment of generations of National Conference leadership and grassroots workers,” Shah said.
Shah further emphasised that the National Conference respects individuals and recognises legitimate political differences, but remains firmly committed to its organisational discipline, principles and collective leadership.
“No individual can place himself above the organisation, its legacy, its principles or the mandate of the people. The strength of the National Conference lies in its collective leadership, disciplined cadre and historic connection with the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were politically conscious and capable of distinguishing between genuine public service and political opportunism. “The National Conference will continue to remain focused on good governance, development, public welfare and strengthening democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir,” Shah added.
