The Indian National Congress chapter in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir has announced a 15-day long campaign to press for restoration of statehood to the territory, stating that New Delhi has failed to fulfill its promises.  According to Kashmir Media Service, speaking to reporters in Jammu, IIOJK Congress chapter president Tariq Hameed Karra said the campaign, titled “Our State, Our Right”, will be launched from Udhampur from Thursday (today). 

He criticized the BJP for delaying statehood restoration despite repeated assurances, stating, “We reminded the Indian Prime Minister and Home Minister of their commitments, but their cold attitude raises doubts about their intentions.” He stressed that the demand for restoration of statehood was a key issue, adding, “We want our right to statehood to be restored as soon as possible”. He said the BJP leadership is answerable for the delay in restoration of the statehood. 

Karra said there is a strange dilemma prevailing in IIOJK where people are gradually developing cynicism after participating in the democratic exercise with a hope to get their day-to-day issues addressed. He also highlighted public frustration over governance failures, including issues related to electricity, ration, roads, and water supply. “The dual power structure in J&K has only added to the confusion. People feel their vote has not benefited them, and the delay in restoring statehood is compounding their concerns,” he said.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)