BJP Government Has Kept the Kashmiris Economically Frail: Congress

The Indian National Congress branch in occupied Jammu and Kashmir has condemned the BJP-led Indian government, accusing it of depriving Kashmiri people of their democratic rights in a bid to politically and economically disempower them.

In response to the prevailing socio-political and security climate in the region, Raman Bhalla, the working president of the IIOJK Congress chapter, expressed concern over the populace’s agitation due to the denial of their democratic freedoms. Speaking at a gathering in the RS Pura area of Jammu, Bhalla questioned the tangible benefits that the people of IIOJK have reaped following the revocation of the region’s special status. He criticized the decision to downgrade Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories, labelling it as an unfortunate manoeuvre by the BJP to assert direct control over the territory from New Delhi, thereby undermining the democratic principles on which the nation stands.

According to Bhalla, the divisive and deceptive politics of the BJP has sown seeds of chaos and uncertainty not only in the occupied territory but across India as well. He emphasized his party’s commitment to resisting the BJP’s malicious agendas and misguided policies.

This stance by the Indian National Congress chapter in IIOJK highlights the ongoing political tensions and discontent within the region following the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian government in August 2019. The decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcate it into union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh was met with widespread criticism and sparked unrest in the region.

Bhalla’s remarks underscore the perception among some segments of the population that the actions taken by the Indian government are aimed at consolidating power rather than addressing the legitimate grievances and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. The assertion that the BJP’s policies are contributing to confusion and discord resonates with sentiments expressed by various opposition parties and civil society groups within India.

The Indian National Congress’ vow to confront the BJP’s alleged agenda in IIOJK signifies a continued struggle for the preservation of democratic values and the rights of the Kashmiri people. However, it remains to be seen how effective such resistance will be in the face of entrenched political dynamics and security challenges prevalent in the region.