Early Times Report JAMMU, May 12: National Conference Additional General Secretary and former Minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party for what he hate mongering against a particular community, saying such divisive politics would severely harm the social harmony and secular fabric of the sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a meeting at Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu West Assembly Constituency, oragnised by Sat Pal Karloopia Ex-Corporator and Farman Ali, Sadhotra expressed anguish and dismay over provocative and inflammatory speeches being delivered by BJP legislators and leaders and cautioned against attempts to vitiate the atmosphere for petty political gains. He said responsible public representatives must act with restraint and uphold the values of harmony and mutual respect. Sadhotra said Jammu and Kashmir has a long legacy of communal amity, coexistence and brotherhood, which must not be allowed to erode due to polarising narratives. The politics of hatred and division can only deepen mistrust among communities and weaken the centuries-old social bonds that have withstood difficult times, he said. Sadhotra said that political discourse should strengthen inclusivity and welfare of the people rather than creating fear and suspicion among communities. Leaders are expected to unite society and inspire confidence among the people, not create divisions on religious or communal lines, he added. Sadhotra also expressed concern over selective action against a particular community under the garb of anti-drug campaigns. While reiterating that the National Conference has zero tolerance towards the menace of drugs and fully supports strict action against drug peddlers and networks, he maintained that any drive against narcotics must remain impartial and transparent. "Drug abuse is a grave social challenge that is destroying the future of our youth and needs to be tackled firmly. However, selective targeting of any community is unacceptable and raises serious concerns," he said. Sadhotra asserted that the fight against drugs should not be communalised, as such an approach would defeat the larger objective of creating a healthier and safer society. He stressed the need for a fair, balanced and law-based approach in dealing with social crimes. Calling upon people to maintain unity and communal harmony, Sadhotra said divisive tendencies must be collectively defeated in the larger interest of peace and stability. Sadhotra reiterated that the National Conference remains committed to safeguarding the interests of all sections of society without discrimination and would continue to uphold the principles of inclusiveness, equality and social justice. Prominent among others who addressed and participated in the meeting are Mohd Ayoub Malik Provincial Secretary, Sat Pal Karloopia, Ghar Singh (Both Ex-Corporators), Veer Ji Bhat, Ashwani Charak, Anil Kumar, Shabir Samyal, Inderpal Singh, Tilak Raj Bhagat, Mohinder Kumar Bhagat, Inderpal Ex-Sarpanch. |