Congress Launches Campaign for Restoration of Statehood in IIOJK

In a bold move, the Indian National Congress in IIOJK has initiated a 15-day campaign aimed at pressing the Indian government to restore the region’s statehood, after claiming that promises made by New Delhi remain unfulfilled.

The Indian National Congress (INC) chapter in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has started a 15-day campaign to demand the restoration of statehood to the region. This initiative highlights the continued frustration of the people, who feel that promises made by New Delhi have not been honored. The campaign, titled “Our State, Our Right,” will officially commence in Udhampur on Thursday, and aims to amplify the demand for statehood to be reinstated.

Tariq Hameed Karra, the president of the IIOJK Congress chapter, addressed the media in Jammu, expressing dissatisfaction with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for postponing the restoration of statehood, despite multiple assurances. He mentioned that the INC had persistently reminded the Prime Minister and Home Minister of their promises, but the government’s indifferent response has raised concerns about the sincerity of their intentions. Karra emphasized that the demand for statehood was not just a political issue, but a vital need for the people of IIOJK, urging that the restoration be made a priority.

He also pointed out the growing sense of disenchantment among the residents of IIOJK, who have become increasingly skeptical after participating in the democratic process. They had hoped their participation would lead to solutions for their daily problems, but instead, they have seen little improvement in governance. Karra mentioned that there is significant public frustration due to the inefficiency of local governance, citing problems such as power shortages, poor water supply, inadequate rations, and deteriorating roads.

The Congress leader also criticized the “dual power structure” in the region, which he believes has only added to the confusion and chaos. He noted that many people now feel that their votes have not had any real impact, which has further fueled their disillusionment. The delay in statehood restoration has only intensified the concerns of the people, leaving them uncertain about their future.

This campaign by the Indian National Congress is a direct challenge to the current government’s approach to governance in IIOJK. By emphasizing the region’s demand for statehood, the Congress party aims to reignite public support for their cause and put pressure on New Delhi to fulfill its promises. The outcome of this campaign will likely influence the political landscape of the region and could shape future debates about the autonomy of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.