Jammu , 26 / November / 2024 : — On Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariq Hameed Karra asserted that the central government is hesitant to reinstate full statehood to the Union Territory (UT). He claimed that the government intends to retain control over several key departments, which are considered essential for any state.
Karra emphasized that the Congress party will not accept any amendments and will persist in demanding the complete restoration of statehood to J&K at the earliest opportunity.Speaking to reporters during a public rally in Rajouri district, organized to commemorate the 75th Constitution Day, Karra revealed that influential figures within the central government are opposed to restoring statehood to J&K in its original form.“They (the government) aim to keep certain crucial departments, which are the backbone and foundation of any state, under their direct control through amendments.
Such a version of statehood is unacceptable to the Congress,” stated the PCC chief.When questioned about the Congress’s stance on Article 370, which was abrogated by the BJP-led government in August 2019, Karra reiterated the party’s principled position, describing the government’s action as “unilateral and undemocratic.”“The Congress Working Committee (CWC) convened on August 6, 2019, and passed a resolution condemning the government’s action in the strongest terms, labeling it undemocratic and unilateral.
They had no right to make such a decision without consulting the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.Karra noted that the Supreme Court’s verdict on the matter has left parties striving for the restoration of statehood for J&K.“Our sole demand is the restoration of statehood, and our stance is grounded in the Supreme Court’s decision. We campaigned in the elections on this demand and will continue our efforts for its restoration,” he affirmed.Addressing a query about the National Conference (NC)’s push for the restoration of Article 370, Karra clarified that while the Congress and NC contested the assembly elections together, they each had their own manifesto.“It is common for alliance partners to come together but campaign on their own manifestos.
This is true for both J&K and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Neither did they (NC) campaign on our manifesto, nor did we campaign on theirs,” he explained.Regarding the fact-finding committee formed to investigate the party’s poor performance in the recent assembly elections in J&K, Karra mentioned that the committee is finalizing its report, which will be available soon.“Once we receive and review the report, we will approach the Election Commission with any complaints. There are concerns among the public about potential foul play in the elections,” he said.The Congress managed to secure only six assembly seats — five in Kashmir and one in Rajouri district of Jammu region.“We chose to observe Constitution Day in Rajouri to express our gratitude to the voters and workers of our alliance partners for their support. The voters rejected the BJP’s religious polarization and upheld communal harmony and brotherhood,” Karra concluded. — (PTI)
