JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Political rhetoric regarding the alliance between the Congress and the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir has intensified. Vikar Rasool, the former State President of the Congress, has questioned his own party’s alliance, terming it a “historic blunder.” He stated that the Congress High Command should reconsider this alliance and make a decision promptly.
Vikar Rasool asserted that the Congress is deriving no political benefit from this alliance within the state. He claimed that while many party leaders are privately dissatisfied with the alliance, he is the one openly opposing it. According to him, the Congress’s position is steadily weakening, and public issues are being sidelined.
He also took aim at both the National Conference and the BJP regarding the ongoing demolition drive targeting the homes of the poor in the state. Vikar Rasool argued that government ministers cannot evade responsibility by claiming they were unaware of the demolition drive. He alleged that the people of the state are being misled, and that an “internal understanding” exists between the two parties.
Questioning the conduct of Congress legislators as well, he remarked that public-centric issues are not being raised effectively within the Legislative Assembly. Citing election promises such as smart meters, unemployment relief, free electricity units, and free gas cylinders, he noted that while the government has failed to fulfill these pledges, the role of the opposition also appears weak.
Without explicitly naming anyone, Vikar Rasool leveled serious allegations against certain leaders, accusing them of encroaching upon the land of displaced Kashmiri Hindus. He remarked that these very individuals are now preaching about political morality. He further pointed out that those who previously advocated for a joint India-Pakistan currency are now attempting to portray themselves as staunch nationalists.
Following this statement, political turmoil within the Congress party has escalated further. Ravinder Sharma, the party’s Chief Spokesperson, described Vikar Rasool’s statement as “irresponsible.” He stated that the alliance was formed with the objective of keeping the BJP and the RSS out of power, and that the final decision regarding this rests solely with the party high command.
Meanwhile, speaking in support of State Congress President Tariq Hamid Karra, Ravinder Sharma remarked that the party leadership is discharging its duties with full responsibility, and that any decision concerning the alliance will be taken after careful deliberation.
