Goel's refusal to transfer power projects unacceptable: NC

Opposition National Conference today said Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal's remarks regarding the J-K government's demand for the return of power projects had "yet again exposed" ruling PDP and its "politics of lies and deceit".
"Goyal's remarks, during a press interaction, regarding the J-K government's alleged demand for the return of power projects has yet again exposed PDP and its politics of treachery, lies and deceit.
"The central government's categorical refusal to even review the demand of returning power projects to the state is unacceptable and highlights the leitmotif of PDP-BJP alliance," NC chief spokesperson Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi said in a statement here.

Replying to a question on the demand of the state government regarding transfer of two power projects to Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Minister today said "demand comes from everywhere but a demand does not translate into a decision".
Mehdi said this is the second time when the Union Power Minister has himself categorically rejected the demand for the return of power projects to the state.
"This happened earlier when the Union Power Minister was chairing a meeting in Gulmarg in the presence of the state's Finance Minister who refused to utter a single word in opposition to this arbitrary rejection of a just and rational demand.

"Now, this time around as well, PDP as well as Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti have chosen to remain completely silent, thereby validating this refusal as an accessory," the NC chief spokesperson alleged.

"What is Mehbooba doing sitting in the CM's chair when her demands and promises have been rejected and are being rejected in such a casual, contemptuous manner by her own alliance partner?,"
Mehdi said.
He demanded the Chief Minister to speak up and express her "disapproval" of such "arbitrary" statements from the central government.
"Her silence on issues vital for the state's prosperity and dignity has lowered the stature of the Chief Minister's Office and threatens the state's special status," Mehdi said.