Omar Abdullah's statement on Urdu in Revenue Records - A misleading and politically motivated move: Pawan Sharma

JAMMU: Pawan Sharma, Senior BJP Leader and State Secretary J&K, strongly condemn the statement made by Omar Abdullah regarding the use of Urdu in revenue records. This move is a clear example of political opportunism, aimed at polarizing the masses rather than addressing the real issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir.

Omar Abdullah had stated, "Even before Independence, our revenue records were in Urdu. How will a staff member in the revenue department work if he/she doesn't know Urdu? Earlier, when officers of Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) and Indian Administrative Service (IAS) used to get appointed, if they didn't know Urdu, then they were given time to learn basics. I don't think staff members of the revenue department who don't know Urdu can be efficient."

Pawan Sharma responded by saying that Omar Abdullah is deliberately misleading the public. “It is true that before independence, revenue records across Northern India—including Jammu and Kashmir—were maintained in Persian or Urdu. However, with time and administrative reforms, most states transitioned to Hindi, English, or local languages. Even in Jammu and Kashmir, the medium of instruction in government schools has shifted entirely to English,” he said.

Sharma emphasized that Omar Abdullah's focus on Urdu in revenue records constitutes a selective approach, disregarding the linguistic diversity of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP has consistently advocated for the promotion of all official languages, including Hindi, Sanskrit, and Dogri, integral to the region's cultural and linguistic heritage.

Pawan Sharma stated that Omar Abdullah's prioritization of Urdu over other languages is hypocritical. This biased approach raises concerns about his commitment to linguistic inclusivity and equality. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve better representation and recognition of their linguistic identities.

He further criticized Omar Abdullah for failing to focus on real issues facing the Revenue Department. “Instead of encouraging the digitisation and modernisation of revenue records, Omar Abdullah is resorting to outdated language debates to divert attention. He has not convened a single review meeting of the Revenue Department since assuming charge. Now, shedding crocodile tears for the department is nothing but a political gimmick,” Sharma added.

Sharma stated that Omar Abdullah's emphasis on language politics is diverting attention away from pressing concerns such as unemployment, infrastructure development, and social welfare. The BJP urges him to prioritize the needs of the people rather than engaging in divisive politics.

Sharma emphasized the BJP's unwavering commitment to advancing linguistic inclusivity and equality in Jammu and Kashmir, empowering all communities to thrive and ensuring every citizen has equal access to opportunities and resources.

Sharma stated that Omar Abdullah's remarks on Urdu in revenue records represent a desperate attempt to revive his party's dwindling relevance in Jammu and Kashmir. We urge the public to recognize this tactic and support the BJP's commitment to their development and welfare.

Sharma emphasized that language should not be used as a tool to hinder progress or create administrative confusion. “The need of the hour is digitisation, transparency, and accessibility of land records—not regressive politics,” he concluded.