Owais Gul
Srinagar, Nov 6: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President, Tariq Hameed Karra, welcomed the recent resolution passed by the J&K Legislative Assembly, calling it a reflection of the people’s aspirations for the restoration of their constitutional and democratic rights.
Taking to reports, Karra emphasized that this resolution seeks fully empowered statehood for Jammu and Kashmir along with all relevant constitutional guarantees.
“The resolution reflects the desires and aspirations of the people of J&K,” Karra stated, stating that it’s the first democratic expression of the region’s will following the Supreme Court’s recent verdict on Article 370. He argued that there is no justification for the central government to deny rights and protections to the people of J&K that are already afforded in other parts of the country.
Karra affirmed that the Indian National Congress (INC) remains dedicated to fighting for statehood, safeguarding the rights of the people to their land, jobs, natural resources, and unique cultural identity. “Our commitment to J&K’s statehood and the protection of its people’s rights is unwavering,” he added.
Criticizing the BJP’s opposition to the resolution, Karra stated that it revealed the party’s prioritization of political interests over the will of the J&K populace. He argued that the BJP’s stance “not only disrespects the overwhelming sentiment of the people of J&K but actively obstructs the restoration of constitutional rights, including cultural identity, land, and job protections.” According to Karra, the BJP’s actions undermine its claim to represent the people of J&K.
Karra further highlighted that the resolution offers an important opportunity for New Delhi to re-engage meaningfully with the people of J&K, especially given the “mistrust created by the BJP-led government’s actions over the last several years.”