J&K Health Minister Sakina Itoo and sitting MLA Sajad Lone have criticized former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti for leading a review meeting on the development of AIIMS in Awantipora. Itoo questioned Mufti’s authority to conduct the meeting, highlighting that the current government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was overseeing the project’s progress. She emphasized the project’s advancement was due to the present government’s efforts.
Sajad Lone also condemned Mehbooba Mufti’s actions, questioning her right to chair a meeting of a central institution without holding an MLA position. He raised concerns about potential constitutional impropriety and the implications of allowing unelected individuals to lead such meetings. Lone warned that this could weaken established institutions in J&K and create a third power center.
The controversy arose when Mehbooba Mufti presided over the AIIMS review meeting, expressing her satisfaction in fulfilling her late father’s vision. The event sparked criticism from various political figures, highlighting concerns about the legitimacy and implications of such actions.
