SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has publicly accused MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, of failing to prioritize and pursue developmental projects crucial for the Rajwar and Handwara constituencies. Choudhary stated that despite the pressing need for development in roads and public welfare, Lone had not engaged with him to discuss these matters over the past eighteen months.
The Chenab Times has learned that during a public gathering in Handwara on Thursday, Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary expressed his disappointment, remarking that the MLA had “never visited my office even for an hour” to discuss the concerns of the Rajwar people. Choudhary alleged that instead of actively engaging in developmental efforts, Lone had been preoccupied with making political statements and questioning his own position as Deputy Chief Minister.
Launching a direct political critique, Choudhary suggested that the electorate had made a mistake in electing Lone, describing him as “incompetent” and stating that the constituency had consequently suffered from a lack of dedicated representation. He drew a contrast between Lone’s politically influential background and his own origins from a middle-class family and as the son of a soldier, expressing pride in his roots and asserting his commitment to addressing the grievances of ordinary citizens, unlike what he characterized as “arrogant politicians.”
Choudhary further accused Lone of overseeing the neglect of development works during his past ministerial tenures. He cited the example of a bridge inaugurated at Drugmulla earlier the same day, noting that the project had remained incomplete for fourteen years. The foundation stone for this bridge was laid during the government led by Omar Abdullah, and it continued to face delays through subsequent administrations, including periods when Sajad Lone held a ministerial position. Choudhary highlighted that the bridge’s eventual completion and opening to the public was a positive outcome of the Omar-led government’s initiatives.
Detailing progress on infrastructure, Choudhary stated that since the formation of the current administration, more than six Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) road projects originating from the Handwara constituency had been submitted to the central government. He reported that five of these projects had already secured sanction, with work expected to commence shortly. He specifically credited Member of Parliament Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan for his vigorous advocacy in advancing these road projects.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s remarks underscore a significant political friction between coalition partners in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting differing priorities and performance evaluations of elected representatives regarding local development and public service. The accusations point to a contentious debate over accountability and the effective delivery of governance at the grassroots level within the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk