Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Nov 25 :
Former Chief Minister and National Conference Vice-President, Omar Abdullah Saturday offered technical assistance to the J&K administration led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in addressing the current power crisis in Kashmir, citing concerns over the administration’s perceived failure to tackle the issue.
As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), speaking at a day-long party convention in Sumbal, Bandipora, Omar Abdullah raised his apprehension regarding the unprecedented power outages in Kashmir, drawing attention to his past role as a power minister.
Asserting his willingness to assist, he suggested that if the LG administration faces challenges in resolving the issue, they should consult him, stating, “If the LG Administrator fails to address the power crisis in the valley, I will guide him, drawing on my experience as a former power minister, and help find effective solutions.”
“The government initially introduced digital meters for electricity, but when these failed, they replaced them with smart meters. However, these are not smart meters; they are more like ‘Toofan meters.’ Even if we don’t use any heating gadgets at home, they still display a significant consumption of electricity,” he added.
Omar Abdullah raised doubts about the BJP’s claims of normalcy, citing the recent loss of five soldiers in Rajouri. He pointed out the increasing number of young lives lost, mentioning that despite attempts to make Rajouri free from militancy, it has now become a hub for militants.
Looking back at the past, Omar talked about the previously friendly relationship between the PDP and NC. He remembered extending support to the PDP in 2014, cautioning against the risks of involving the BJP in the valley, and expressed regret that their concerns turned out to be accurate.
When asked about the chances of winning elections, Omar said he is hopeful for significant support for the National Conference. He acknowledged that not all votes may go to the NC, but he aims for a considerable mandate.
The former Chief Minister has been actively organizing party conventions in the Kashmir valley for several weeks, aiming to strengthen the party’s foundation in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
A senior NC leader informed KNO that these conventions will persist until December 12, covering various locations across Kashmir—(KNO)