Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has leveled serious accusations against the previous PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that their policies enabled the proliferation of drug abuse within the Union Territory. Choudhary stated that thousands of young people and families continue to suffer as a consequence of the drug crisis stemming from that era.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Choudhary claimed that the surge in drug addiction across Jammu and Kashmir began during the tenure of the PDP-BJP government. He challenged those currently advocating for a “Nasha Mukt J&K” (drug-free J&K) to take responsibility for the current predicament. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Choudhary also criticized the previous administration’s handling of unemployment, recruitment freezes, and outsourcing strategies, arguing that the existing manpower shortages in various departments are a direct result of decisions made during the PDP-BJP’s time in power.
Choudhary highlighted the issue of unemployment during the PDP-BJP governance, stating that numerous teaching positions remained unfilled for extended periods, and many posts were effectively frozen. He further noted the disappearance of permanent job opportunities due to the implementation of outsourcing policies. Choudhary asserted that the present administration has improved the condition of hospitals and public services and has brought about positive changes throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
In addition to addressing the drug menace, Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary emphasized the crucial need to equip students with the skills necessary for securing future employment, with the goal of fostering sustainable livelihood opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He made these remarks during visits to several educational institutions in Srinagar, including Government Polytechnic College, Gogji Bagh; Government Polytechnic College for Women, Bemina; and ITI Bemina. During these visits, he assessed academic activities, infrastructure, and training facilities associated with various skill development programs.
Choudhary instructed authorities to modernize laboratories and workshops with updated machinery and equipment to ensure high-quality practical training for students. He also underscored the need to introduce market-oriented courses that are aligned with both present and anticipated industry demands. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the importance of providing market access and appropriate platforms for students to display their skills and products. He urged students to capitalize on the advantages offered through Mission YUVA and to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs.
Choudhary explained that Mission YUVA facilitates access to loans of up to Rs 10 lakh without requiring collateral or guarantors. He advised students to work diligently, take advantage of these opportunities, and strive to become successful entrepreneurs. During his visit to the Government Polytechnic College for Women, Bemina, Choudhary inspected the Food Processing Technology Unit and advocated for appropriate branding and marketing strategies to enhance the visibility and reach of products created by the students.
Responding to comments made by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, who suggested that the National Conference was “on ventilator” and facing the prospect of a split, Choudhary criticized the BJP leader’s choice of words, deeming them inconsistent with the established traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. Choudhary defended the Abdullah family and stated that while it was their good fortune to have produced the Chief Minister, Sharma’s language was not representative of Jammu and Kashmir nor appropriate for discussing the Chief Minister.
Choudhary further remarked that Sharma had recently arrived from Assam following the conclusion of elections and seemed fatigued and uninformed about the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He questioned Sharma’s focus on the government rather than on the needs of the people. He questioned, if the NC is on a ventilator, why is he concerned only about the Government and not the issues of the people?
The Deputy Chief Minister’s statements reflect the ongoing political and social tensions within Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on key issues such as drug abuse, unemployment, and the need for improved educational and economic opportunities for the region’s youth. The accusations highlight a significant divide between the current administration and the previous PDP-BJP government, with each side presenting contrasting views on governance and development.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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