Close aid of NC President Farooq Abdullah joins BJP

Jammu: In a significant political development, three weeks ahead of the third and final phase of elections to Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly, a close associate of National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah for over 28 years, Mr Kuldeep Sharma along with his supporters including NC Block President Mr. Joginder Sharma from Block Mathwar today joined the BJP.
According to a statement issued from party headquarters here, Mr Kuldeep Sharma, a prominent face of Nagrota, joined the BJP in presence of Senior leader and BJP candidate for the Nagrota Assembly Constituency Mr Devender Singh Rana.
Pledging his overwhelming support to the BJP, Mr Kuldeep Sharma said there is no space for upright, honest and public spirited persons in the National Conference, as discredited and tainted people are dominating the party, which is dangerous for polity. The National Conference, he said does not honour the people with integrity, which is evident from the favours being bestowed upon persons of dubious character while giving mandate.
“What can be ironic than the fact that persons having murder cases against them are chosen to represent the National Conference to contest the elections “, Mr Sharma said, hoping that the self-respecting and sagacious voters of Nagrota will give a befitting reply through power of their vote for the insult hurled at them.
Mr Kuldeep Sharma said that the National Conference is fast distancing itself from the people because of its dubious policies. He said the decisions in this party are being taken by leaders with vested interest without any regard for the grassroots workers who have served loyally for years. He assured his unflinching support for the BJP, a party with vision for the future and focus on national development. He said he will humbly contribute meaningfully to the progress of Nagrota, which is a sacred mission for Mr Devender Rana and people like him.
Welcoming Mr Kuldeep Sharama and their supporters in the BJP, Mr Rana said their entry into the party will strengthen its position ahead of upcoming elections to fulfill the mission of transforming Nagrota as an economic and educational hub with vistas of opportunities to people, irrespective of religion or caste to progress and flourish.
He lauded the contribution of Mr Sharma and others towards the development of Nagrota and their commitment to public service and expressed confidence that their experience and stature would further enrich the BJP ranks.
He said the BJP is a larger family with every Karykarta having a defined role to play for welfare of the people and development of the nation. ‘Nation first’ is a motivation for every Karykarta, who remain always committed to the inclusive growth of the society as per cherished agenda of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, he said adding that the BJP has translated this vision as reality on ground.
Mr Rana said the track record of the BJP since its inception, especially during the past nearly ten years, stands testimony to its pledge of ‘Nation First’, as the party has placed national interest at the forefront in an era where ideologies and priorities differ.