Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in Srinagar, Thakur accused Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti of indulging in "selective politics" by repeatedly highlighting the plight of pellet victims while, according to him, remaining silent about the incidents that took place when they were in power.

 

"Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti should apologise to the people of Kashmir for the civilian killings that took place during their tenure. The people have not forgotten those painful chapters, and those responsible cannot escape accountability by selectively raising issues today," Thakur said.

 

He alleged that the two former Chief Ministers were attempting to politicise the suffering of Kashmiris instead of acknowledging what he described as their own governments' failures in protecting civilians during periods of unrest.

 

Presenting figures to support his claims, Thakur said that during Omar Abdullah's previous tenure there were 130–145 civilian fatalities, 8,000–9,000 pellet injuries, while 256 people were blinded by pellet fire. He further claimed that more than 1,000 people continue to remain affected by detentions under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

 

Referring to pellet victims, Thakur said their pain should never be exploited for political mileage. "These victims deserve justice, rehabilitation and dignity. Their suffering cannot become a tool for scoring political points whenever elections approach," he said, adding that governments should focus on ensuring adequate medical care, financial assistance and long-term rehabilitation for affected families.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

The BJP leader said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were now more interested in peace, development and employment than in "politics driven by emotion and selective narratives". He urged political parties to engage in constructive politics and contribute towards strengthening democratic institutions instead of reviving old controversies for electoral gains.

 

Replying to a question on the possibility of reopening the Muzaffarabad road, Thakur said the BJP was firmly opposed to the move as long as terrorism continued to pose a threat. He alleged that reopening the cross-Line of Control route could facilitate the movement of terrorists, weapons and narcotics into Jammu and Kashmir, compromising the security environment.

 

"There can be no meaningful discussion on reopening the route until Pakistan stops sponsoring terrorism and the security situation improves substantially," he said.

 

Thakur maintained that the BJP-led government remained committed to ensuring lasting peace, strengthening security and accelerating development across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the people deserved accountable leadership focused on governance, infrastructure, investment, employment and public welfare rather than what he termed "divisive rhetoric and political posturing".

 

Reiterating his criticism of the opposition, Thakur said political leaders seeking to speak on behalf of the people must first account for their own record in office. "The people of Kashmir deserve truth, accountability and justice—not selective outrage," he said. (KNS)