BJP’s Reluctance to Restore IIOJK’s Statehood Undermines Democracy

Ajay Kumar Sadhotra criticizes the BJP-led government for its failure to restore IIOJK’s statehood, highlighting the party’s undemocratic approach and its disregard for promises made to the people.

Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, National Conference Additional General Secretary and former Minister, has fiercely called for the immediate restoration of full statehood to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), slamming the BJP-led government for undermining democratic values and neglecting fundamental rights. Speaking at a public meeting in Ramnagar, Jammu, Sadhotra condemned the ruling party’s failure to honor its promises, particularly those made to the Indian Supreme Court, which had supported the idea of returning IIOJK to its previous statehood status.

Sadhotra’s criticism was sharp, accusing the BJP of exhibiting a blatant disregard for the promises it made. “The BJP’s reluctance to restore statehood is not only a violation of its own commitments but an attack on the very foundation of democratic principles,” Sadhotra remarked. He emphasized that the delay in the restoration of statehood is a deliberate tactic to prevent the transfer of power to the people, which is a cornerstone of any democratic society.

In addition to highlighting the broken promises, Sadhotra stated that the BJP’s actions reflect an undemocratic stance, marked by centralization of power and a disturbing disregard for federalism. “Their reluctance to restore statehood exposes their authoritarian agenda,” he added. He stressed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have been waiting for years to regain their rightful autonomy, which is a vital step toward reinstituting peace, stability, and progress in the region. Sadhotra pointed out that the BJP’s failure to act on this critical issue has only led to a sense of disillusionment and frustration among the people of the region.

Further, Sadhotra called on the Indian government to stop its authoritarian approach and to genuinely engage with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in reclaiming their lost dignity and democratic rights. “Instead of working with the people and ensuring their voice is heard, the BJP has continued to impose its oppressive policies, further alienating the people of IIOJK,” he stated.

The public meeting was attended by a significant number of locals, all of whom expressed their anger and disappointment over the continued denial of statehood. The gathering echoed a unanimous demand for the swift restoration of statehood, recognizing that it is essential for securing a more prosperous and peaceful future for the region.

Sadhotra also raised concerns over the long-term consequences of the ongoing political situation. He argued that the longer the BJP delays this fundamental change, the greater the risk of worsening political and social instability in IIOJK. The restoration of statehood, according to Sadhotra, is not only a matter of fulfilling promises but also an urgent necessity for restoring democratic order and ensuring the well-being of the people.

As the demand for the restoration of statehood continues to gain momentum, it remains clear that this issue is at the forefront of the ongoing struggle for justice and autonomy in IIOJK. Local leaders like Sadhotra are determined to continue pushing for a return to the region’s former status, signaling that this fight is far from over.