Congress Leader Advocates for Resumption of Cross-LoC Trade and Statehood for IIOJK

Amid growing concerns over the economic situation in IIOJK, Congress IIOJK President Hameed Karra has called for the resumption of cross-LoC trade, highlighting its potential to revive the region’s economy.

Hameed Karra, the President of the Congress in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), has strongly advocated for the resumption of cross-LoC trade, a crucial economic link between the regions that was abruptly suspended by the BJP-led Indian government in 2019.

Addressing a district convention in Poonch, Karra stressed the importance of restoring this trade route as part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the local economy. The convention was held as part of the Congress’s 15-day campaign, “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” (Our State Our Right), which calls for the prompt restoration of IIOJK’s statehood.

Karra urged the Indian government to explore all viable options to restart the cross-border trade, which had previously been an essential lifeline for the people of IIOJK. The cross-LoC trade, which operated between Salamabad-Uri in north Kashmir and Chakan-Da-Bagh in Poonch, was suspended in April 2019 on unsubstantiated accusations by New Delhi.

Criticizing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its actions in the region, Karra condemned the government’s decision to bifurcate IIOJK and revoke its special status. He accused the BJP of “betraying and disempowering” the people of Kashmir, using “deceitful tactics” to mislead the population.

“The patience of the people here is running out,” Karra warned, emphasizing that the residents of IIOJK would no longer tolerate such actions by the BJP. The frustration among the people, he noted, is growing due to the ongoing political and economic challenges they face.

Furthermore, Karra voiced strong criticism of the BJP’s failure to address the infrastructure and development needs of the border belt, particularly in areas like Poonch-Rajouri. He pointed out that these areas have been severely neglected in terms of infrastructure development, employment opportunities, and overall governance. This neglect, according to Karra, has left the residents of these border regions in a dire situation, further exacerbating their sense of disenfranchisement.

The call for the resumption of cross-LoC trade and the restoration of statehood comes at a time when IIOJK’s political landscape is deeply affected by the actions of the central government. The suspension of trade and travel routes has had a significant impact on the region’s economy, and Karra’s remarks reflect the growing discontent among the people of the territory.

Karra and the Congress party continue to push for a change in policy, seeking to restore both the economic opportunities and the political rights that were taken away in 2019. The party’s campaign emphasizes the necessity of reviving trade and governance structures that support the well-being of the people in IIOJK.