Baramulla,J & K : Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Wednesday accused the National Conference-led government of using the issue of restoration of statehood to divert attention from what he described as shortcomings in governance.

Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Sharma alleged that corruption and unemployment had reached alarming levels and said the government needed to focus on issues directly affecting the people.

Sharma said the elected government had responsibilities to fulfil and alleged that the powers and resources available to it were not being utilised effectively.

“Let them pave the way for us. We will show how to work. They have the work, but they are not using it,” Sharma said, referring to the functioning of the government.

The Leader of Opposition also expressed concern over the employment situation, particularly among youth. He alleged that jobs were increasingly being filled through outsourcing, adding that unemployment remained a major concern for young people.

Sharma said the opposition would continue to raise issues concerning various sections of society, including NHM employees, daily-wage workers and Anganwadi workers. He maintained that the opposition would use the Assembly and other democratic platforms to highlight public grievances and seek accountability.

He further alleged that funds released by the Centre were not being utilised effectively on the ground. He also linked the issue to delays in holding Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Body elections.

On electricity, Sharma criticised the government over increased power charges, alleging that higher tariffs had placed an additional financial burden on ordinary households.

The LoP reiterated that the opposition would continue to raise what it considers genuine public concerns and press the government for answers on governance, employment, development and the delivery of public services. Recent reporting has also quoted Sharma saying that the opposition intends to take people’s demands to the Assembly and hold the government accountable.

Report By – Aadil Abdullah