Delay in statehood restoration will harm future generations, weaken democracy: IIOJK Deputy CM
Srinagar : In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Deputy Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) senior leader Surinder Choudhary has said that further delay in restoring statehood to the territory will have serious consequences for future generations, stressing that it was essential for strengthening democracy, governance and development.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Surinder Choudhary addressing public meetings at Bari Brahmana, Vijaypur and Samba in Samba district and Hiranagar in Kathua district, said statehood restoration was “not merely a political demand” but a prerequisite for empowering democratic institutions and ensuring effective governance.
“Every passing day without the restoration of full statehood is causing irreparable harm to the future of Jammu and Kashmir. The continued delay will affect not only the present generation but also generations to come by slowing development, weakening democratic institutions and creating uncertainty in governance,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir, being a sensitive border territory and a globally recognised tourist destination, requires a fully empowered elected government capable of taking independent decisions in the interest of its people.
He said the National Conference and its alliance partners will hold a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20 to press the Indian government for restoration of statehood. He also urged people to participate in a public meeting scheduled on July 12 at Maharaja Hari Singh Park, Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion, NC Jammu Provincial President Rattan Lal Gupta reminded the Modi government of its repeated assurances on restoring statehood and said the “appropriate time has come” to fulfill those commitments.
Gupta said restoration of statehood would strengthen democratic institutions, improve accountability, encourage investment, boost tourism, generate employment and ensure balanced development across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the demand was above party politics and represented the dignity and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
