PDP Legislator Launches Scathing Attack on NC Government Over SASCI Scheme
In a heated session of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly on Monday, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) launched a fierce criticism against the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference (NC) government for utilizing the Centre's Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) program. PDP legislator Waheed Parra described the scheme as "the most dangerous scheme" implemented in the region since the abrogation of Article 370.
What is the SASCI Scheme?
The SASCI scheme provides states with 50-year interest-free loans specifically designated for capital investments and infrastructure development. Additionally, it offers financial incentives to encourage reforms in key sectors. During his budget speech last week, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah revealed that Jammu and Kashmir was brought under this scheme last year, emphasizing that his administration had "proactively leveraged this new opportunity."
Omar Abdullah stated, "This reflects the confidence of the Government of India in the reform orientation, financial discipline, and execution capacity of Jammu and Kashmir." However, this assertion was met with strong opposition from the PDP benches.
Parra's Emotional Assembly Speech
Speaking during the budget session, Pulwama MLA Waheed Parra delivered an emotional address directly challenging Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was present in the House. Parra accused the NC of betraying its electoral mandate by accepting loans under SASCI.
"Why are you taking loans under this scheme? Who will repay these loans after 50 years?" Parra demanded, his voice rising with intensity. He argued that unlike previous programs such as the MGNREGA rural job scheme, which provided grants, SASCI funds constitute a "market loan" that places future generations in debt.
Parra elaborated, "If you are constructing roads, bridges, and playgrounds under SASCI, you are effectively putting Jammu and Kashmir under mortgage. You are putting Jammu and Kashmir on sale. SASCI means the destruction of Jammu and Kashmir, and you have brought it without any consultation." His passionate delivery reportedly riled members of the ruling NC.
Historical Comparisons and Further Allegations
The PDP legislator drew parallels with international examples, warning of potential economic pitfalls. "It is a death trap. Similar problems from loan schemes happened in Bangladesh and Pakistan. We are selling Jammu and Kashmir for petty loans," Parra asserted. He questioned the feasibility of repaying such a substantial debt after five decades and challenged the notion of "free loans."
Parra further intensified his criticism by questioning the political motivations behind the scheme. "The BJP is not your alliance partner. So, on whose behest are you bringing this? Why are you taking a Rs 50,000-crore loan for free?" he asked, insinuating external influence on the NC government's decision-making.
Controversy Over Parliamentary Conduct
The session took a procedural turn when Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather ordered an inquiry into whether Waheed Parra had used an additional microphone to amplify his voice during his speech. NC members and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had complained that Parra's volume kept increasing, potentially disrupting parliamentary decorum. This investigation adds another layer of controversy to the already tense debate surrounding the SASCI scheme and its implications for Jammu and Kashmir's financial future.
The assembly session highlighted deep political divisions over economic policy, with the PDP framing the SASCI loans as a long-term burden and the NC defending them as a vital tool for development and a sign of central government trust.
