JAMMU, May 25: The Apni Party on Monday voiced concern over delays in the panchayat and urban local body (ULB) elections in Jammu and Kashmir and urged authorities to hold the polls without further postponement to strengthen grassroots governance. The demand was raised at a provincial-level meeting chaired by party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari.
The meeting reviewed the political situation in the Union Territory, aired public grievances and discussed organisational matters, a party spokesperson said. Bukhari insisted the panchayat and ULB polls be held immediately, saying people are awaiting the elections.
Party leaders criticised the Omar Abdullah government for what they called its failure to address pressing public issues. They said several election promises remain unfulfilled, including 200 units of free electricity, free cooking gas, an increased ration quota, 100,000 jobs for youth and regularisation of daily wagers.
Apni Party leaders directed district workers to step up public outreach, stay closely connected with constituents and remain prepared for the upcoming panchayat and ULB elections.
