Jammu: Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Friday said the Nagrota and Budgam bypoll results clearly reflect the public’s verdict against “nepotism, corruption and family-driven politics” in the region.
Speaking to reporters, Sharma said Devyani Rana’s victory in Nagrota was “inevitable,” as people voted to fulfil the aspirations of the late Devender Singh Rana.
“Nagrota’s result was certain. People had already decided to elect Devyani Rana to honour Swargi Devender Singh Rana’s legacy. What is noteworthy is the huge margin with which a first-time young candidate has been blessed,” he said.
Responding to allegations of money and influence misuse by rival leaders, Sharma said such accusations only reflect their “lack of faith” in the public mandate.
Calling the Budgam bypoll outcome a “historic rejection of the Abdullah family,” Sharma said, “This is a defeat for the Abdullahs and Omar Abdullah. I haven’t witnessed such public anger against any former Chief Minister in such a short span. People are tired of corruption, nepotism, deceit and unfulfilled promises.”
Sharma said he had anticipated the National Conference’s defeat, sensing widespread resentment among youth, women and senior citizens. “I had said 15 days ago they would lose on the 14th. People have rejected family rule,” he added.
On the BJP’s showing in Budgam, Sharma said the party has made important gains. “We did not contest in 2024, but this time we fielded Agha Mohsin. We are ahead of many regional parties,” he noted.
Asked whether the BJP could open its account in Kashmir in future elections, Sharma said the party has emerged as a strong alternative. “People in Kashmir now see the BJP as an option. Just as they rejected the PDP earlier and are rejecting the Abdullah family now, we believe they will choose the BJP in the times ahead,” he said.
Commenting on internal issues within the National Conference and the so-called “Aunty government,” Sharma said the public verdict is unambiguous. “The fight against nepotism has begun in J&K. The prepaid-meter policy and misgovernance have been rejected in Budgam. This result is the answer,” he added.
