Minister Satish Sharma says scheme approved; BJP slams ‘betrayal’ of 12‑cylinder election promise
Srinagar, Sep 24: The Legislative Assembly descended into chaos on Thursday after Minister for Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma announced that the scheme of providing six free gas cylinders to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families had received approval from the competent authority. The announcement prompted the main opposition party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to question the government over its election promise of 12 free cylinders.
Making the announcement in the House, Sharma, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the scheme for AAY families had been cleared and an order rolling it out would be issued shortly.
The statement immediately drew sharp reactions from the Leader of Opposition, who accused the government of betraying the people on promises ranging from 12 free gas cylinders to free electricity supply.
“This is mockery of the people with whom you had made promises. You stand exposed. You have repeatedly lied to the people,” Sharma told the treasury benches.
He said the people would never forgive the National Conference over its freebie promises. “You want to put balm on the wounds of people by announcing six gas cylinders. People have rejected you. Do you think they will be convinced by your sweet talk? Not at any cost. People will never forgive you for deceiving them in the name of cylinders, electricity, and ration,” the Leader of Opposition added.
He further claimed that the government would not even be able to provide six cylinders. “Today, you are trying to befool people in the name of six cylinders. You will not be able to provide them. Where will you get these six cylinders from? This is betrayal of the poor people of Jammu & Kashmir whose blood has been sucked by you. When will you give these six cylinders?” Sharma asked.
The LoP also demanded that the government give an account of the 24 cylinders promised over the past two years.
Sharma’s sharp remarks triggered strong protests from National Conference MLAs as well as its ally Congress.
“Chanda Choor Kahan Milenge, BJP Ke Daftar Mein (You will find donation thieves in BJP office),” the ruling party legislators shouted.
The BJP responded with slogans such as “Bijli Choor Hai Hai” (Down with electricity thieves) and “Cylinder Choor Hai Hai” (Down with cylinder thieves).
As chaos continued in the House, the Speaker asked the protesting lawmakers to take their seats, after which the situation returned to normal. (KNO)
