Dividing people, handiwork of PDP, BJP: Omar

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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today accused both PDP and BJP of dividing people in the name of religion and asked them to remain aware of conspiracies aimed at creating a wedge between communities.
"Dividing people in the name of region or religion can be the handiwork of 'pen and ink pot' (PDP's symbol) or 'Kamal' (BJP's symbol), but the bearers of 'red flag with plough' (NC's symbol) has always worked to unite the communities of Jammu and Kashmir," Omar said while addressing a public gathering at Mendhar in district Poonch.
Omar urged Gujjars and Bakerwals to live in harmony and reject those who try to "wedge them apart" for vote bank politics.

"Complement each others efforts and aim at welfare and development of weaker sections," he said.
Pointing at PDP's absence from the recently concluded budget session in the Assembly, Omar said, "You are aware that the preachers and practitioners of divide and rule politics have left you alone after getting your votes."
"Your representative, under the command of party leadership, chose to remain out of Assembly proceedings and did not voice your demands in the House for petty political gimmickry," he said.

Mendhar is represented by PDP MLA Rafiq Hussain Khan.
Omar told people to send such representatives to the Assembly, who will stand for their cause and raise their demands on the floor of House.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said Power Development department has assured him that the storm damaged electricity supply system in Poonch district will be restored by end of this month.
Strict orders for booking the persons responsible for heavy damage to the power system in the area have been issued, Omar said and added, erring officials will be handed over severe punishment under law.