JKPCC urges PM Modi, Centre to honour promise on statehood - Greater Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 25: Demanding restoration of rights and constitutional guarantees, the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) held a protest at its office on Maulana Azad Road, Srinagar, on Monday, demanding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

The protest was led by JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra, who emphasised the party’s consistent stance on this issue.

Karra reminded the central government of its promise to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a commitment made after the region’s special status was revoked in August 2019. “Our principles remain unchanged before, during, and after the elections. We have always demanded the restoration of the rights and constitutional guarantees taken away in 2019,” Karra who was joined by scores of party leaders and workers told reporters.

He urged the central government to fulfil its pledge, particularly as the Parliament session began. Referring to a Supreme Court directive, the Congress leader said the government is bound to restore statehood and hold elections in the region. “If the government cannot honour its promise as a moral obligation, it should at least respect the Supreme Court’s ruling,” he added.

He expressed concern over the delay in restoring statehood, describing it as a betrayal of the people’s democratic rights. He also criticised the lack of progress, saying, “The government’s inaction is an insult to the emotions and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” Expressing his disappointment, he said the delay in delivering on this promise is an affront to the aspirations and democratic rights of the people.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance during his visit to Srinagar on September 19, the JKPCC Chief reminded the government that statehood should be restored “as soon as possible”. However, Karra said that these assurances have not been honoured, leaving people disheartened.