Jammu:
Jammu, Mar 5: Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education, and Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), holding it responsible for the political and administrative setbacks in Jammu and Kashmir post-August 5, 2019. She asserted that the people of J&K have lost faith in the PDP and will not repeat past mistakes.
Speaking to reporters outside the Legislative Assembly in Jammu, Itoo said, “People trusted the PDP in 2002 and again in 2014, but they were deceived both times. Our statehood, our special status under Article 370, our jobs—everything slipped away because of them. People now regret giving them those chances.”
She further criticized the governance under PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, alleging that his tenure, even in alliance with Congress, was marked by administrative inefficiency. “The position of Chief Minister was reduced to mere symbolism under their rule,” she remarked.
On the state of healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, Itoo acknowledged persistent gaps, particularly a shortage of doctors and paramedical staff. She accused past governments of prioritizing ribbon-cutting ceremonies over meaningful progress in the health sector.
“If their track record is scrutinized, it will expose their failures. They were more interested in inaugurations and laying foundation stones than in actually strengthening healthcare infrastructure,” she said.
The minister assured that the Omar Abdullah-led government is determined to revamp the health sector. “In just three months, we have accomplished more than what was done in the past decade. Our focus is on enhancing healthcare services, ensuring proper patient care, and filling vacant posts in the sector,” she said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to public welfare, Sakina Itoo assured that genuine grievances will be addressed with urgency. She also welcomed the ongoing budget session, calling it a positive development for democratic governance in Jammu and Kashmir.