As J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah continues to face criticism for his handling of the unrest, his lieutenant Devinder Rana has also come under severe attack from their party, National Conference.
NC Rajya Sabha MP Ghulam Nabi Ratanpuri had complained to the chief minister about the “arbitrary style of functioning” of his political adviser.
“In my complaint, I also quoted some instances. But Omar Abdullah is convinced Rana can do no wrong,” Ratanpuri said. He said many NC leaders had also approached Abdullah with complaints that Rana’s actions were “detrimental” to the party. “But these were also dismissed as baseless allegations,” he said.
Rana is considered one of the more powerful men in J&K and his closeness to Omar has not gone down well with a section in the NC.
Ratanpuri said Omar had a different style of working. “People say he is a non-resident CM but his frequent visits to Delhi are only to pursue the state’s case with the Centre,” he said.
Ratanpuri admitted the perception that “Omar is Delhi’s man” has adversely affected his image in the state.
{{/usCountry}}Ratanpuri admitted the perception that “Omar is Delhi’s man” has adversely affected his image in the state.
{{/usCountry}}He accused the Centre of “failure” in delivering on its promises. “There are no concrete steps,” he said but acknowledged “some lapses” on part of the state government as well.