SRINAGAR: Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exploiting the recent anti-terror military action, Operation Sindoor, for political mileage, terming it a disservice to the courage and sacrifice of India’s armed forces.
Addressing a public meeting at Reka in the Ramgarh Assembly Constituency of Samba district, Sadhotra hailed the collective patriotism of Indians in confronting terrorism “sponsored by the terror state of Pakistan.” The event was organised by senior party leaders S Balbir Singh and Ashok Kumar Attri, a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police.
Paying tribute to the security personnel involved in Operation Sindoor, Sadhotra said the operation had not only avenged the killing of innocent civilians in Baisaran Pahalgam but had also sent a strong message of India’s resolve against terrorism. “Our armed forces demonstrated unmatched valour, commitment, and professionalism,” he said.
He also expressed deep solidarity with the residents of border areas who have been enduring unprovoked shelling from Pakistan. Calling them the “unsung heroes of national defence,” Sadhotra demanded immediate relief, compensation, and rehabilitation support for the affected families. “Their courage and resilience in remaining in harm’s way deserve the nation’s highest salute,” he added.
Lashing out at the BJP, Sadhotra said it was “shocking” that the ruling party was trying to derive electoral benefits from a military operation. “This is not the first time we’ve seen such opportunism. Similar political theatrics were witnessed after the surgical strikes and Balakot operation,” he said, warning that politicisation of such actions undermines the morale of the armed forces and insults their sacrifice.
He also lauded the outreach efforts of National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during what he described as “testing times” along the border. “Our leadership has always stood with the people, especially in moments of grief and hardship,” he said.
National Conference Women’s Wing Provincial President Satwant Dogra, who also addressed the gathering, congratulated women for participating in the meeting and reiterated the party’s commitment to women’s empowerment as a catalyst for broader social and economic development.
Sadhotra further said that the Omar Abdullah-led government was focused on resolving key issues facing both the Jammu and Kashmir regions, including rising unemployment, poor delivery of public services, and the need for uninterrupted power and water supply, particularly during the harsh summer.
He called upon people to reject what he termed “divisive politics” and to unite for peace, development, and justice in the region. “The National Conference is committed to improving the lives of farmers, border dwellers, youth, and women,” he said.
The public meeting also saw several local residents formally joining the party under the leadership of Balbir Singh, including Balwinder Singh, Makhan Singh, Tarsem Singh, Upinder Singh, and several others. Sadhotra welcomed the new entrants, saying their support would strengthen the party and its leadership under Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.
