As the winter session of Parliament commences, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president has once again urged the Centre to honour its commitment to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The appeal came during a press conference at the party headquarters in Srinagar, where the JKPCC president addressed party workers and leaders.
Restoring Statehood: A Promised Obligation
In his address, the JKPCC president reminded the Centre of the promises made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. “We have gathered today to remind the Centre, particularly the Prime Minister and Home Minister, about the promise they made on the floor of Parliament to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood,” he said.
The JKPCC chief emphasized that the beginning of the winter session presented a crucial opportunity for the government to act on its commitment. “As Parliament begins its winter session, we want to convey the aspirations and emotions of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the Prime Minister and Home Minister. You have repeatedly promised both inside and outside Parliament to restore statehood. On September 19, especially, you made a specific promise in Srinagar that statehood would be restored as soon as possible. However, there has been no tangible progress so far,” he added.
Criticism of Centre’s Inaction
Karra also accused the Centre of ignoring the legitimate demands of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress is raising its voice to convey the message to those in power who have so far been indifferent to the concerns of the region. Their continued neglect of this issue will not go unnoticed for long,” he warned.
The Congress leader further criticized the Centre for failing to act despite the Supreme Court’s clear directions. “If the government is unwilling to restore statehood on moral grounds, at least respect the directives of the Supreme Court. The court has instructed the Centre to conduct elections and restore statehood. It is the government’s duty to adhere to the court’s instructions,” Karra said.
A Call for Immediate Action
The JKPCC president reiterated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had waited long enough for the fulfilment of this promise and urged the Centre to take decisive action. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve justice, and it is high time the government respects their aspirations,” he concluded.