Congress Call for Restoration of Statehood in IIOJK

Former Deputy Chief Minister of Indian-illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and senior Congress leader, Tara Chand, has called for the restoration of full-fledged statehood to Jammu and Kashmir before the upcoming assembly elections. This plea highlights the ongoing controversy over the region’s political future and the need to restore its historical status and rights.

Addressing a large gathering in Jammu, Tara Chand emphasized the importance of reinstating statehood with all its associated rights and legal provisions. He highlighted the region’s historical significance and the commitments made by previous legislatures regarding its status. Chand’s speech resonated with many in attendance, reflecting the widespread sentiment among the people of Jammu and Kashmir for a return to full statehood.

Prominent Congress leaders, including Narinder Sharma, Sahil Sharma, Madan Lal Sharma, and others, were present at the event, lending their support to Chand’s call. Their presence signals a united front within the Congress party on this issue, demonstrating a collective demand for the restoration of statehood.

The revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019 by the Modi government remains a contentious issue. The decision to abrogate Article 370, which granted special autonomy to the region, and the subsequent bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories, has been met with significant opposition. Many argue that this move has undermined the region’s autonomy and has had adverse effects on its political, social, and economic landscape.

To conclude, the demand for statehood also ties into broader concerns about democratic representation and the rule of law in the region. Since the abrogation of Article 370, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have experienced increased military presence and restrictions on civil liberties. Restoring statehood is seen as a way to re-establish democratic processes and provide the region with greater political stability and autonomy.