JK Congress Accuses Centre of Failing to Address Terrorism: Demands Restoration of Statehood
Jammu, Nov 8 — The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) voiced strong criticism against the BJP-led central government on Friday, alleging its failure to curb terrorism in the region despite its Union Territory status. The Congress claimed the Centre is using diversionary tactics to shift attention away from core issues, including terrorism, unemployment, and the demand for the restoration of statehood.
Expressing grave concern over the recent surge in terror-related incidents, JKPCC Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma held a press conference condemning the killing of two Village Defence Guards in Kishtwar. Sharma pointed to the increasing security risks in Jammu and Kashmir since the region’s reorganization as a Union Territory in August 2019, asserting that this transition had not led to improved security as promised.
“The BJP-led Centre has failed to contain terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir under its Union Territory status. Instead, it is diverting attention from core issues like terrorism, unemployment, and the need to restore statehood with an empowered government,” Sharma stated.
Sharma further criticized the BJP for engaging in disruptive tactics within the assembly, accusing its members of sidestepping discussions on key security issues. He emphasized that the delay in restoring full statehood had deprived the region of an empowered local government that could more effectively address the ongoing challenges.
Highlighting the party’s demands, the Congress spokesperson called for the immediate restoration of statehood with constitutional safeguards on land, jobs, and resources. Sharma cited the special status enjoyed by states like Himachal Pradesh and northeastern states under Article 371, urging the BJP to clarify its stance on denying similar protections for Jammu and Kashmir.
“Special status under Article 371 exists for several states. The BJP must explain its resistance to statehood restoration with similar constitutional protections for Jammu and Kashmir,” Sharma argued.
The JKPCC also proposed a comprehensive anti-terror strategy that would involve an elected local government, asserting that local leaders would be better positioned to manage Jammu and Kashmir’s unique security needs.
The Congress’s demands echo widespread calls for the restoration of full statehood and for measures that would allow a more localized and focused approach to the region’s security and development.
