Leader of Opposition calls for focus on developmental issues

Srinagar, Nov 4: Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma Monday said that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and National Conference (NC) have reverted to their usual ways and they should focus on development issues.

“PDP and NC have reverted to their usual ways,” Sharma told reporters after PDP MLA from Pulwama, Waheed Parra moved a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370 and called for restoring J&K’s special status.

“I had hoped they did focus on issues like roads, water, and electricity after J&K became a Union Territory, but they seem intent on pulling common citizens’ children into conflict,” he said.

Sharma criticised PDP and NC leaders for allegedly sidelining developmental priorities in favour of reigniting outdated conflicts.

“The people in J&K had looked forward to more focus on pressing issues like infrastructure, healthcare, and job opportunities,” he said and urged Parra to honour the assembly decorum and engage in constructive dialogue.

“As a first-time MLA, Waheed Parra should respect the assembly’s decorum and uphold discipline,” Sharma said reiterating his belief that the assembly should remain focused on pragmatic issues that directly impact the lives of people rather than historical grievances. He said there was a need to move beyond the “politics of the past” and focus on immediate needs. “People have endured enough during these years of conflict and transition. We should concentrate on issues affecting their day-to-day lives, including road repairs, water supply, electricity, and healthcare,” Sharma said.