Statehood restoration, J&K’s special status NC Govt’s top priority: Dy CM

Kulgam: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Tuesday said that the top most priority of the National Conference led government is to restore statehood and special status to Jammu and Kashmir, besides safeguarding land and jobs.
Talking to reporters after paying tribute to former Speaker Wali Mohammad on his 31st death anniversary at Damhal Hanjipora here in South Kashmir, the Deputy Chief Minister said “Since the formation of the National Conference Government, we have been doing whatever is possible.” Asked about the promises made in NC’s manifesto during elections, he said that all commitments would be fulfilled.
“The promises made by the National Conference in its manifesto will be fulfilled one by one. Give us some time, as we are deeply concerned about the employment of youth. The National Conference government has only one motive—to work for the poor and fulfill the aspirations and dreams of the people,” Choudhary said.
Responding to a query on the deaths of two people in Qazigund, Kulgam, he condemned the incident and called for an investigation, urging the Lieutenant Governor of J&K to intervene. “It is very wrong, and we condemn such incidents. There is a need for an inquiry, and the LG should intervene, as the police are under him. He must look into how such deaths occur, whether in Kashmir or Jammu. Also work needs to be done on drug menace,” he said.
Meanwhile, Choudhary visited Chandain Pajan area of Kulgam to meet the family of the two brothers who were found dead after they went missing. He called for a judicial probe into the deaths, saying, “Two youths from the Gujjar-Bakarwal community have lost their lives, and one has been missing for several days. CM Omar Abdullah has directed us to visit the families and understand their needs. We can’t bring back the deceased, but I assure you that a judicial inquiry will be conducted,” he said. He said that the government would provide all possible assistance to the families, adding that Omar Abdullah government knows how to address issues