Congress condemns oppressive actions against Katra leaders
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 31: The Congress party has expressed disapproval of the authorities’ oppressive tactics regarding the Katra situation and has called for the immediate intervention of the Lt Governor to facilitate the release of detained leaders, in order to foster a favorable environment for dialogue, provided the authorities are genuinely interested in achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
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During a press conference held today, JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra, alongside senior party leaders, criticized the administration’s harsh measures in response to the Katra situation, where representatives of the protestors are facing mistreatment and detainment. He noted that such methods have only worsened the atmosphere for dialogue and contradict the Shrine Board authorities’ claims of seeking a collaborative solution with all stakeholders.
Karra was accompanied by working presidents Tara Chand and Raman Bhalla, chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma, and others including Th Balwan Singh, Yogesh Sawhney, Ved Mahajan, SS Channi, and Namrata Sharma. He questioned whether this was an appropriate way to handle stakeholders, given that their representatives have been detained for indefinite periods under alleged inhumane and unsanitary conditions. He further doubted whether such mistreatment of local leaders would truly foster a conducive environment for resolving the current conflict.
Karra stated that since the onset of the situation on November 27, the Congress party sought the release of detained leaders through the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and sent a high-level delegation to Katra to offer solidarity to the agitating populace. However, he asserted that the ongoing oppressive approach would not lead to favorable outcomes. He raised concerns regarding why only Congress leaders have been denied access to Katra for meeting the public while leaders from other political parties continue to visit or support the cause.
He indicated that the Congress had reached out to the highest office of the Lt Governor, requesting intervention to ensure the release of all detained leaders, emphasizing that dialogue should consider the interests and concerns of all parties involved. The Congress party has requested an urgent meeting with the LG to discuss the situation and has expressed its desire to send a high-powered delegation to meet the community.
The PCC chief pointed out that the undue hurriedness and repression depicted in this matter sends a negative message, especially concerning the livelihoods of Pony-walas, Pithu-walas, Palkiwalas, local traders, shopkeepers, transporters, vendors, etc., as well as the associated religious sentiments. He also expressed concern for the difficulties faced by visiting pilgrims due to the situation arising in Katra.
Karra remarked that the people of J&K feel once again let down in 2024, as the promised restoration of Statehood, made through various rallies and discussions, including in Parliament and the Supreme Court, remains unfulfilled. There is significant dissatisfaction and unrest among the populace regarding this issue.
