Demand for separate Jammu state confined to few individuals: Satish Sharma

Kupwara, Jun 19: Minister Satish Sharma on Friday said the demand for a separate state for Jammu does not reflect the aspirations of the people and is confined to a handful of individuals, mostly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Speaking to reporters here, Sharma said the people of Jammu and Kashmir are seeking restoration of statehood and not further division of the erstwhile state. “We were once a state and are now a Union Territory. Statehood was promised to the people, and we will continue to raise the demand as it is our right,” he said.
The minister, said businesses in Jammu, particularly in Kathua, Samba and Jammu districts, have suffered considerably over the years, while economic activity was adversely affected and inflation and hardships increased in the aftermath of the prevailing situation.
Referring to the ongoing campaign for restoration of statehood, Sharma said all political leaders, including MP Agha Ruhullah, should participate in the movement. “Those who have reached their positions through the National Conference should stand with the party on this issue,” he said.
Reaffirming the National Conference government’s commitment to its promises, the minister said all commitments made in the party manifesto would be fulfilled during its tenure. He said the government would present its report card to the people after completing five years in office.
Calling for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Sharma said the people of the region have made immense sacrifices for the country and deserve to have their democratic rights restored. He criticised attempts to oppose the elected government, saying the verdict of the people must be respected.
On tourism, the minister said the return of visitors to Kashmir is a major achievement and a strong response to forces trying to destabilise the region. “A year ago, it seemed difficult to imagine such a large influx of tourists. Today, tourism is back on track, and it is a positive message for the entire country,” he said.
The minister announced that major sports events and film festivals would be organised in Jammu and Kashmir in the coming months to boost tourism and create employment opportunities for youth. He said the government was also working towards hosting an IPL match in the region in the near future.
Highlighting developmental initiatives, Sharma said two IT Parks are being established in Srinagar and Jammu, which would generate employment opportunities for educated youth. He added that the government is also working on major infrastructure and water-related projects.
Commenting on governance and administrative functioning, Sharma said the working environment has changed over the years. He remarked that, unlike earlier times when senior officials would stand in attention for ministers, today officials function strictly according to protocol and institutional responsibilities.
The minister praised former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh for the development witnessed during his tenure and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for completing the railway project that was initiated during Dr Singh’s government. “Improved rail connectivity has significantly boosted tourism and economic prospects across Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Calling former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee a “visionary leader”, Sharma said the country today needs leadership marked by the statesmanship, wisdom and inclusive approach associated with both Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh.
“We are servants of the people and remain committed to fulfilling their aspirations,” Sharma added. (KNO)