SRINAGAR 18 Dec– Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu & Kashmir Spokesperson Manzoor Bhat, today lashed out at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his recent remarks claiming he feels insulted when addressed as the Chief Minister of a Union Territory (UT). Bhat termed the statement a classic example of political opportunism and a desperate attempt to divert public attention from the government’s failure to deliver on its promises. If it is an insult, why did you fight for the chair?
Omar Abdullah was well aware of the legal and constitutional status of Jammu & Kashmir before the elections. He had publicly vowed never to contest for the UT Assembly. Yet, driven by the hunger for power, he not only contested but took the oath of office under the very same UT framework he now calls an insult Bhat said.
Bhat highlighted the dire state of the tourism industry, which serves as the backbone of the J&K economy pointed out that the 2025 summer season was a disaster for the local economy, with tourism growth stalling due to a lack of proactive governance and safety measures. While other Himalayan states are launching winter festivals, J&K is stagnant. We are halfway through December, and there is no concrete calendar for winter sports or cultural activities to attract domestic and international tourists Bhat said.
Bhat slammed the government for ignoring the plight of hotel owners, taxi drivers, and shikara walas who suffered massive losses this year. He noted that instead of creating a Winter Attraction Strategy the CM is busy with political rhetoric.
Bhat pointed out that the CM cannot enjoy the perks and protocols of the office while simultaneously discrediting the institution. He stated that the rules of the UT were clear to everyone before the first vote was cast.
The BJP Spokesperson alleged that the insult narrative is being pushed because the National Conference (NC) government has failed to address basic issues like the electricity crisis, unemployment, and infrastructure delays in its initial months.
Bhat challenged the Chief Minister saying If being the CM of a UT is beneath your dignity and causes you such personal grief, the honorable path is to resign immediately. Jammu & Kashmir needs a leader who is committed to serving the people within the existing constitutional framework, not someone who spends their time complaining about the chair they fought so hard to sit in.
Bhat reiterated that the Central Government, led by PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah, has already committed to restoring statehood at the appropriate time. He advised the CM to focus on governance instead of playing the victim card to incite emotions.
Bhat urging the Chief Minister to come out of his “ego-trip” and announce immediate relief measures for the tourism sector, including winter festivals and promotional campaigns, before the entire winter season is lost.
