Srinagar, June 17: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference-led government, accusing it of failing to address the growing shortage of ration and LPG across the Valley and neglecting the everyday concerns of the people.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a party function, Bukhari expressed concern over what he described as the government’s inability to ensure the supply of essential commodities. He questioned the administration’s presence on the ground and said the public was being left to suffer without adequate support.
“Where is the government? Has anyone seen it? I feel ashamed. I have repeatedly raised these issues, but there seems to be no concern from those in power,” Bukhari said.
The Apni Party chief highlighted the alleged shortage of rice in Srinagar, claiming that many families run out of ration supplies by the middle of every month. He questioned the government’s promises regarding additional ration and asked how families are expected to cope when basic food supplies are unavailable.
“People in Srinagar are left without rice after the 16th of every month. Families are struggling, and when children ask for food, parents are left helpless. The government had promised additional ration, but people are still waiting for those assurances to be fulfilled,” he said.
Bukhari also criticized the LPG distribution system, alleging that obtaining cooking gas has become increasingly difficult for ordinary consumers. According to him, residents face unnecessary hurdles while trying to secure gas cylinders, adding to the hardships already faced by households.
“We are facing a shortage of cooking gas as well. People are being told their names are not on the list, and the entire process has become unnecessarily complicated. Earlier, cylinders were delivered to homes, but now people are being made to struggle for a basic necessity,” he said.
Commenting on the National Conference’s proposed protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar demanding restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Bukhari dismissed the move as a political exercise aimed at gaining attention rather than addressing pressing public issues.
He described the planned demonstration as a “new political drama” and said the government should focus on resolving the problems affecting common citizens instead of engaging in symbolic political programmes.
“The people have voted with expectations of governance and development. Instead of concentrating on public welfare, they are creating new political spectacles. After one issue ends, another drama will be found,” Bukhari remarked.
The Apni Party leader reiterated that the government must prioritize the availability of essential commodities, improve public services, and respond to the concerns of citizens facing daily hardships across Jammu and Kashmir.
