The Congress on Saturday accused the BJP of overseeing a severe decline in security in Jammu and criticized the Union Territory’s administration, led by the lieutenant governor, for its alleged inability to manage the situation effectively. Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jammu and his address at the Vijay Sankalp Maharally, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed a significant rise in narcotics smuggling and a collapse of governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
Taking to social media platform X, Ramesh questioned the deteriorating security environment in Jammu. He stated, “Despite the BJP’s nationalist rhetoric, they have presided over an unprecedented decline in security. Militancy is resurging in Jammu after almost 15 years. Earlier this year, the administration reported only 31 active terrorists in J&K, including four in Jammu. Now, officials claim that the number has jumped to 50-60.” He further highlighted the “terrible consequences” of the increased militant activity for the region’s people.
Referring to a terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi on June 9, Ramesh criticized the LG administration’s handling of the situation, calling it “unprecedented incompetence.” The attack resulted in the bus plunging into a gorge, killing nine people, including a child. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently conducted searches in connection with the incident.
Ramesh also questioned the BJP’s decision to end the 149-year-old “Durbar Move,” an annual tradition where the J&K State Government shifted between Srinagar and Jammu, which he argued was a significant economic boost for Jammu. The administration had ended the tradition in 2021, stating that it would save Rs 200 crore annually through a fully digital e-office system.
The Congress leader also linked the rise in terrorist activities to increased narcotics smuggling, claiming that the international border in Jammu has become a primary area for smugglers. He stated that drug consumption in the region has surged by 30% over the past five years, turning J&K into a “transit hub” for narcotics destined for other states.
Ramesh went on to accuse the administration of corruption and mismanagement, alleging that policing has deteriorated, leading to a spike in theft and violent crime. He criticized the lack of development, pointing out that while neighboring states have established IT parks, Jammu has seen no similar investment, leaving local youth with few employment opportunities.
Concluding his remarks, Ramesh asserted that the BJP’s handling of Jammu and Kashmir has led to a “collapse of governance” and that the administration has shown no interest in fostering development or addressing the region’s critical issues.
