Jammu | October 29, 2026 ; Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has hit back at the BJP over its criticism of the Omar Abdullah-led government’s Cabinet reshuffle, questioning how some political leaders define Hindu identity and assuring the people of the Chenab Valley that no region will be neglected.
Speaking to reporters in Ramban district, Choudhary responded to the BJP’s concerns over regional and community representation following the induction of four ministers into the Cabinet.
🗣️ “I Am Also a Hindu” — Choudhary Questions BJP’s Narrative
Choudhary said that although he represents Jammu, some people do not consider him a Hindu, prompting him to question the standards being used to define religious identity.
He also challenged claims that Jammu had been denied its fair share of representation, pointing to the electoral representation received by the National Conference in the Chenab Valley.
His remarks have added another dimension to the ongoing political debate over regional representation, community identity and the composition of the expanded Cabinet.
🏔️ ASSURANCE TO THE PEOPLE OF CHENAB VALLEY
Addressing concerns about the absence of a ministerial position for the Chenab Valley, the Deputy Chief Minister assured residents that the government would continue to address the region’s needs.
He stated that the absence of a minister from a particular area would not mean that its people would be abandoned.
Choudhary said the Omar Abdullah government would work to ensure that the Chenab Valley received its fair and equal share of development and government attention.
🏗️ DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AND PENDING CLEARANCES
The Deputy Chief Minister also criticised BJP leaders over development-related issues, arguing that political statements alone would not resolve delays caused by pending no-objection certificates (NOCs) and forest clearances.
He urged BJP leaders to use their influence with the authorities in New Delhi to help expedite pending approvals and remove obstacles affecting development projects.
⚡ CHALLENGE TO THE OPPOSITION
Choudhary challenged BJP MLA and Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma to help secure the necessary clearances for stalled projects rather than repeatedly predicting the government’s collapse.
Referring to the political speculation surrounding the government’s future, he expressed confidence that the Omar Abdullah-led administration would complete its term.
📌 THE BIGGER POLITICAL PICTURE
The exchange highlights the continuing political contest over Cabinet representation, regional balance, religious identity and development priorities in Jammu and Kashmir.
While the BJP has raised concerns about representation in the expanded Cabinet, Choudhary has defended the government’s position and promised equitable attention to regions without ministerial representation.
Ultimately, residents will look to concrete outcomes: fair access to development, timely project approvals and responsive governance across Jammu, Kashmir and the Chenab Valley.
🤝 REPRESENTATION MATTERS. DEVELOPMENT MATTERS. EVERY REGION DESERVES TO BE HEARD.
