Congress backs restoration of IIOJK statehood, constitutional safeguards
Pawan Khera says Kashmiris' rights over land, resources and jobs must be protected
Srinagar: Senior Indian National Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Pawan Khera has called for the restoration of statehood to Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), along with constitutional guarantees to protect the rights of Kashmiris over their land, resources and employment.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Pawan Khera, who is on a visit to Kashmir, expressed concern over the prevailing situation in IIOJK, saying many young people remain imprisoned and meaningful dialogue has stalled.
He said the Congress supports the restoration of IIOJK’s statehood and favours constitutional safeguards to protect the rights of its people, while stressing the need to heal public grievances before pursuing political dialogue.
“I have not come here for politics. I have come to listen to the people of Kashmir,” Khera said. Referring to the constitutional changes imposed on August 5, 2019, he said, “The youth of Kashmir have a right to jobs. The people of Kashmir have rights over their land and resources. They should receive constitutional guarantees for these rights.”
Asked how the Congress intended to move the political process forward, Khera said the party believed the first priority should be addressing the suffering of the people. “If people are wounded, you cannot begin by talking politics. First, the wounds must heal,” he said.
Khera added that the future course should be shaped in accordance with the aspirations of the people of IIOJK, particularly the youth. “What comes next and what the future relationship should be will be decided by the people of Kashmir, especially its youth,” he said.
