Srinagar, Jun 2: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, accusing her of prioritising power over the interests of the people and holding her responsible for what she termed the “political and constitutional setbacks” suffered by Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters as per news agency JKNS, Itoo alleged that Mehbooba Mufti rejected unconditional support offered by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah after the collapse of the PDP-BJP government, despite assurances that the National Conference would not seek any ministerial position or office.
“When the BJP withdrew support from her government, Dr Farooq Abdullah had offered unconditional support only to keep BJP away from power. But she rejected that support because she wanted to remain on the chair,” Itoo said.
The minister claimed that decisions taken during the PDP-BJP alliance eventually led to the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, loss of statehood and other challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir.
“Today there is no statehood, no Article 370, no Article 35A, thousands are in jail and people have suffered immensely. Those decisions have brought Jammu and Kashmir to this stage,” she said.
Referring to political developments after 2019, Itoo said Farooq Abdullah had repeatedly called for a united platform of regional political parties but alleged that Mehbooba Mufti failed to support such efforts. She further accused the PDP chief of being focused solely on regaining power rather than addressing public concerns.
The National Conference leader also criticised the BJP over recent demolition drives, alleging that action was disproportionately targeting poor people while influential encroachers were being spared.
“Why are only poor people targeted? If influential individuals have occupied large tracts of land, action should be taken against them as well. The law must be applied equally,” Itoo said.
Reiterating her party’s stand, she said the National Conference would continue its political struggle for restoration of statehood and protection of the rights and identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)
