SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Additional General Secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of failing to address educated unemployment in the Union Territory, demanding accountability for its employment record between 2014 and 2024.
Addressing a public meeting at Janipur Ward No. 37, near a gurdwara in the Jammu North Assembly constituency, Sadhotra said the BJP owed young people a clear account of the employment opportunities created during its years in power through alliance and proxy governments.
He alleged that educated young people had faced repeated recruitment delays, uncertainty and controversies despite spending years preparing for competitive examinations and acquiring professional qualifications.
Sadhotra said unemployment had consequences beyond the economic sphere, contributing to frustration among young people and leaving some vulnerable to substance abuse and other harmful influences. He also expressed concern about the impact on families and the future prospects of qualified candidates.
Accusing the BJP of prioritising political slogans over employment generation, he said young people needed transparent recruitment processes, a stronger private sector, skill-development opportunities and an administration responsive to their aspirations.
He also criticised what he described as the failure of the BJP’s ‘double-engine’ government to deliver on its employment promises.
Sadhotra said the National Conference, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was committed to making employment a central part of its development agenda. He said the party supported transparent and accountable recruitment, strengthening local industries and encouraging investment to help young people find opportunities within Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting also saw a number of women join the National Conference. Welcoming them into the party, Sadhotra said their decision reflected growing confidence in its policies and inclusive approach.
Ayesha Gupta, in-charge of the NC Women’s Wing in the Jammu North Assembly constituency, and Anju Mehra, its co-in-charge, also addressed the gathering. They highlighted concerns relating to sanitation, public health, hygiene and the delivery of civic services, particularly in densely populated areas.
Sadhotra heard the concerns raised by speakers and local residents and assured them that the issues would be brought to the attention of the relevant authorities for appropriate action. He said the party would continue to engage with people at the grassroots and raise their concerns on appropriate platforms.
The meeting was organised by Anju Mehra, Rita Gupta, Chand Gupta and Surekha Sharma.
Those who also addressed the gathering included Sandeep Singh Manhas, Vishwajeet Singh Sambyal, Veer Ji Bhat, Rajinder Singh, Priyanka Dogra, Poonam Sharma, Wahida Kousar, Shallu Sharma, Seema Bhat, Pushp Jandial, Amit Singh Jamwal, Sangram Singh Manhas, Kewal Sharma, Rajinder Banial, Sonu Pangotra, Sandya Chib, Mona Gupta, Rani Kumari, Yashpal Dogra, Chintamani Goswami, Ashwani Gupta and Priya Rani.
