Shiv Sena Calls for Restoration of IIOJK’s Statehood and End to LG’s Rule

The Shiv Sena’s IIOJK unit has demanded the restoration of the region’s statehood and an end to Lieutenant Governor’s rule, criticizing the dual power structure and its adverse effects, particularly on the Jammu region.

The Shiv Sena’s unit in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has called for the restoration of the territory’s statehood and the end of the Lieutenant Governor’s (LG) rule. Manish Sahni, the chief of Shiv Sena’s IIOJK unit, made this call during a program held at the party’s central office in Jammu. He argued that the current governance system, with the LG at the helm, is detrimental to the region and has led to a lack of accountability. Sahni insisted that the police force should be brought under the authority of the region’s elected government, ensuring better accountability and governance.

Sahni voiced strong criticism of the dual power structure that currently governs IIOJK. He emphasized that this setup disproportionately affects the Jammu region, with local leaders and residents feeling sidelined by the central government’s control over key administrative functions. According to Sahni, this imbalance not only undermines local governance but also alienates the people of Jammu, who have faced the brunt of this system.

In a previous video interview, Sahni had expressed his disapproval of the Modi government’s decision to revoke Article 370 in 2019, describing it as a “wrong decision.” He reiterated his long-standing position on the matter, saying, “I have been fighting for the return of my state, my Articles 370 and 35A.” These constitutional provisions, which granted special status and autonomy to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), were abrogated by the Indian government, sparking widespread protests and unrest in the region.

Sahni also pointed to the surge in pro-freedom activities across Jammu, noting that eight out of ten districts in the region witnessed attacks in 2024. This increase in unrest refutes the claims made by the Modi government that normalcy had returned to the region following the revocation of Article 370. Despite the government’s assertions, local leaders and residents, including Sahni, argue that the political and social climate remains tense, with ongoing calls for the restoration of IIOJK’s special status.

The Shiv Sena leader’s remarks reflect growing dissatisfaction with the central government’s handling of the situation in IIOJK. While the revocation of Article 370 was portrayed by the Indian government as a step towards greater integration of the region, critics, including Sahni, believe it has led to further unrest and division. The call for the restoration of statehood and local control over police forces highlights a wider demand for greater autonomy and political freedom for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.