Growing Demands for Statehood and Land Rights in IIOJK

The people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have long awaited justice, but political promises continue to fade into empty rhetoric.

Tara Chand, the working president of the Congress chapter in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), has once again called for the restoration of statehood along with constitutional safeguards for job and land rights for local Kashmiris. His remarks come amid increasing frustration among the people of the region, who feel abandoned by political leaders despite repeated assurances.

Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Chand reminded the public that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had made a clear promise to restore statehood to IIOJK after revoking its special status in August 2019. He emphasized that the ruling party had also assured constitutional protections for land and employment, which would prioritize opportunities for the local population. However, he accused the BJP of deliberately delaying these commitments, leaving the people of IIOJK feeling deceived.

Chand further criticized political parties across the spectrum, stating that they often make grand promises during election campaigns but fail to take meaningful action once they assume power. He pointed out that the people of IIOJK continue to suffer due to these unfulfilled commitments, facing economic hardships and an uncertain future. According to him, successive governments have prioritized their political gains over the well-being of the Kashmiri people, contributing to their growing distrust in the system.

The delay in restoring statehood has intensified concerns among locals who feel that their voices are being ignored. The absence of constitutional safeguards has led to fears of demographic changes in the region, with non-locals being given access to jobs and land that were once reserved for Kashmiris. This has sparked widespread resentment, as many believe that such policies threaten their cultural and economic rights.

Apart from demanding the restoration of statehood, Tara Chand also raised concerns over land ownership in IIOJK. He urged the government to grant legal ownership rights to local farmers who have been cultivating land for many years. According to him, those who have worked on the land for generations should have rightful ownership instead of living in constant uncertainty.

The issue of land rights has become a major point of contention, especially after reports suggesting that outsiders are being given access to land in the region. Locals fear that such measures will further marginalize them and push them into economic distress. Chand stressed that ensuring land ownership for the rightful inhabitants is crucial for protecting their livelihoods and maintaining regional stability.

With ongoing dissatisfaction among the people of IIOJK, demands for accountability and concrete action from the government continue to rise. Many believe that only through sustained pressure and political activism can their voices be heard. The call for restoring statehood and protecting local rights is not just about politics—it is about preserving the identity, dignity, and future of the Kashmiri people.

As the struggle for justice continues, the people of IIOJK are looking for actions, not just words, from those in power. Their demand is clear: the restoration of their rights and an end to political deception.