Jammu, Dec 23: On Monday, BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh called for the resignation of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, citing the government’s failure to meet the essential needs of its citizens, including the frequent and unplanned power cuts and the ongoing water crisis.
Chugh condemned the current challenges faced by the residents of Kashmir, asserting that Omar Abdullah’s National Conference (NC) administration has not effectively tackled these pressing issues.
In a statement, Chugh criticized the government for not delivering on its promise of providing 200 units of free electricity, noting that this commitment remains unfulfilled. Instead, Kashmiris are experiencing unpredictable and regular power outages, plunging their daily lives into considerable difficulty.
He pointed out that during the severe winter season, especially during Chilai Kalan—the 40-day period starting December 21 characterized by sub-zero temperatures—electricity is a basic necessity rather than a luxury.
Citing the harsh realities of the situation, Chugh mentioned that Srinagar recorded a nighttime temperature of minus 8.4 degrees Celsius on the first day of Chilai Kalan, which is the lowest in over thirty years. The extended power outages, combined with water shortages, have made it challenging for residents to fulfill their basic needs.
“The NC government has failed to prioritize the essential services of electricity and water. The water crisis in the Valley is equally worrying, exacerbating the difficulties faced by the population. The administration’s disregard for these issues represents a total breakdown in addressing the vital needs of its citizens,” Chugh stated.
He warned that without immediate action to restore electricity and rectify the water crisis, the BJP would organize protests against the government.
“The Omar Abdullah-led administration must take swift measures to alleviate the suffering of the people and honor its commitments. Ignoring these critical concerns is intolerable, and the BJP will not stand by silently while the residents of Kashmir endure such hardships,” he affirmed.
Chugh insisted that the National Conference government must seriously acknowledge the situation and act decisively to return to normalcy, ensuring that Kashmiris receive the electricity and water they urgently require during this difficult time.
He further criticized Abdullah’s leadership, claiming he has lost the trust of both the populace and his own party.
Referring to the protest led by Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi outside Abdullah’s residence, along with other parties joining in, Chugh asserted, “This is a clear indicator of the Chief Minister’s failures. Omar Abdullah must resign at once.”