Jammu, October 6, 2025:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday launched a strong attack on the National Conference (NC) government in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing it of “complete apathy” and “insensitivity” towards the long-pending issues of encroached and desecrated Hindu temples, cremation grounds, and other sacred sites across the Valley.
Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters in Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, BJP leaders Rajni Sethi, Spokesperson; Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, Media Secretary; and Ankit Gupta, Spokesperson, jointly condemned what they termed the NC government’s “total failure” in protecting the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Rajni Sethi said Jammu and Kashmir — known for its rich, composite culture — continues to suffer from neglect under the current NC regime. “The terrorism of the 1990s displaced thousands and led to large-scale desecration and encroachment of temples and sacred properties. Even after a year in power, the NC government has done nothing to heal those wounds,” she said.
Citing specific examples, Sethi mentioned that temples such as Hari Parbat, Bohra Mandir (Bohri Kadal), Sheetal Nath Mandir, and Shiv Mandir Baramulla remain in a dilapidated state, while cremation grounds in Karan Nagar, Baghat Barzula, Kripal Mochan Sopore, and Shopian continue to face encroachments. She demanded a time-bound roadmap to identify, retrieve, and restore all encroached temple lands. “The Chief Minister must demonstrate his commitment to justice by naming those involved and taking strict legal action,” she added.
Dr. Pardeep Mahotra highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir’s spiritual heritage is deeply intertwined with its tourism potential. “Tourism is a vital lifeline for J&K’s economy, generating employment and supporting local enterprises. While the Modi government and the LG administration have worked decisively to promote tourism and ensure security, the NC government has failed to build on these initiatives,” he said.
Ankit Gupta criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for “unfulfilled promises” and lack of transparency. “A year after coming to power on the slogan of change and progress, the government has little to show. It must act swiftly to identify and restore heritage and religious sites under the Heritage Conservation and Religious Infrastructure Scheme,” Gupta said, urging the administration to act “without political bias or delay” to safeguard J&K’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy.
