Jammu, Jan 24 (KINS): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday organised an intensive training workshop for its MLAs at Jagat Resorts in Shakti Nagar, Jammu.
The workshop aimed to strengthen legislative skills, improve coordination within the party, and reinforce ideological clarity among elected representatives.
The workshop was addressed by BJP National General Secretary and J&K Prabhari Tarun Chugh, BJP J&K President and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma, former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, Leader of the Opposition in J&K Sunil Sharma, General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, National Secretary Dr Narinder Singh, and other senior leaders. All BJP MLAs attended the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Tarun Chugh said such workshops are regularly organised by the BJP to strengthen its leaders and MLAs both ideologically and organisationally. He said these interactions help leaders understand party policies and programmes better and prepare them to deal with social and political challenges.
He stressed the vision of a Viksit Bharat under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with focus on good governance, public welfare and delivery of development to the last person. Chugh said the BJP is firmly committed to a fully united Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), and to equal development of all regions without discrimination.
Talking to the media, he said Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing development and stability under the Modi government, while divisive politics based on false promises has no future.
In his address, Sat Sharma said such training programmes are an important part of the BJP’s organisational culture. He said the workshops help MLAs stay connected with party ideology, discipline and public service. Sharma also recalled the contributions of national leaders like Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee and Pt Prem Nath Dogra in strengthening national unity.
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur shared his experiences and said a BJP leader is a lifelong learner. He advised MLAs to focus on constituency development, responsible leadership and ethical political conduct, while raising public issues effectively.
Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta explained the working of legislative assemblies and shared practical knowledge on rules, procedures and effective participation in House proceedings. He said informed and prepared MLAs can raise people’s issues more effectively and ensure accountability.
Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma presented the vote of thanks and said BJP MLAs will strongly raise people’s issues in the Assembly. He said the party will oppose all forms of discrimination and work for inclusive development while upholding constitutional values.
Ashok Koul briefed MLAs on organisational functioning and stressed coordination between MLAs and party workers. He also spoke about upcoming programmes, including Assembly-wise conferences and public outreach campaigns.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition Surjit Singh Salathia spoke on the current socio-political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, while Deputy LoP Pawan Gupta highlighted the constitutional duties and responsibilities of MLAs, stressing discipline and constructive opposition.
NH-44 Closed for Second Day as Snowfall Hits Jammu Region
Jammu, Jan 24: The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained shut for the second consecutive day due to heavy snowfall and slippery road conditions.
Fresh snowfall disrupted normal life in several areas, including Patnitop, Nathatop, Sanasar, Batote, Banihal and Gool. Power, water supply, communication services and road connectivity were badly affected, while many markets remained closed due to low movement.
Several remote areas of Ramban district continued to remain cut off. Air travel was also hit, with multiple flights at Srinagar Airport cancelled.
In Doda district’s Bhalesa area, authorities advised residents to stay indoors as heavy snowfall continued and temperatures dropped below zero. Officials said up to one foot of snow was recorded in plains, while higher reaches received two to three feet. Only emergency services are being allowed until conditions improve.(KINS)
