Former minister and BJP leader Choudhary Zulfkar Ali has come under fire yet again—this time for his remarks on the Badal tragedy, which claimed several innocent lives due to alleged delays in transferring critically ill patients to PGI Chandigarh.
Zulfkar, notorious for his frequent political shifts and opportunistic strategies, has drawn sharp criticism for his comments, seen as an attempt to deflect blame and salvage his and the BJP’s reputation.
Zulfkar, who began his political career with the National Conference, defected to the PDP, later flirted with JKAP, and eventually joined the BJP ahead of the 2024 assembly elections. This pattern of shifting loyalties has eroded his credibility, with political analysts and the public viewing him as a leader prioritizing self-interest over principles.
Amid the ongoing war of words between the administration and MLA Budhal, Choudhary Javid Iqbal—who defeated Zulfkar in the assembly elections—Zulfkar positioned himself as a neutral voice. However, his track record overshadowed his remarks, casting doubt on his sincerity.
In his comments on the Badal incident, Zulfkar appealed for the issue not to be politicized, calling it a “serious matter” that demands swift government action. He highlighted the need for advanced medical care and pointed to the high costs of air ambulance services, estimating them at Rs 4-5 lakh per trip to Chandigarh.
However, his statements have been criticized as superficial, with many accusing him of sidestepping the real issue: the alleged mismanagement and failure of GMCH Jammu in handling the crisis.
Adding fuel to the fire, Zulfkar took a veiled jab at MLA Budhal, accusing him of prioritizing media appearances over addressing public concerns. “He is recently elected, and I don’t think it’s appropriate to comment on his actions.
But it seems he is more interested in talking to the media than resolving issues affecting the people,” Zulfkar remarked. This statement has been perceived as an attempt to discredit Javid Iqbal, who has been vocal in demanding accountability from the administration over the tragedy.
Zulfkar’s political journey has been anything but steady. His frequent party-hopping—from the National Conference to PDP, then to JKAP, and finally to the BJP—has left voters questioning his commitment to public service. Critics argue that such behavior reflects a lack of ideological consistency and a focus on personal gain.
“Choudhary Zulfkar Ali’s political career is a case study in opportunism,” said a senior political analyst. “He has shifted allegiances multiple times, always aligning with parties that suit his ambitions at the moment. This pattern has rendered him a figure of distrust among the electorate.”
The Badal tragedy has exposed severe gaps in the state’s healthcare infrastructure and the administration’s preparedness to handle emergencies. The delay in shifting patients from GMCH Jammu to PGI Chandigarh has led to public outrage, with many blaming systemic inefficiencies and administrative indifference for the loss of lives.
While Zulfkar dismissed the incident as “not a big issue,” others, including MLA Budhal, have called for accountability and systemic reforms. Javid Iqbal has been at the forefront of the demands, highlighting the need for urgent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Zulfkar’s attempt to position himself as a voice of reason in the controversy has largely backfired. His remarks have been widely criticized as political posturing, with many accusing him of using the tragedy to rebuild his tarnished image.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir are tired of leaders who offer empty rhetoric instead of solutions,” said a local resident. “Zulfkar’s comments are a reminder of why we need leaders who are genuinely committed to public service, not those who jump ship for personal gain.” As the controversy continues to unfold, the Badal tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for systemic reform and accountable leadership.
For leaders like Choudhary Zulfkar Ali, who have failed to rise above political theatrics, the incident is a stark indictment of their priorities and relevance in today’s political climate. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve leaders who focus on solutions, not self-preservation. With lives at stake, hollow words and political maneuvering will no longer suffice.
