Excelsior Correspondent
POONCH, Feb 15: Criticizing the BJP for deceiving and undermining the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Tariq Hameed Karra reaffirmed today the necessity of restoring Statehood without delay.
Speaking at a well-attended district convention in Poonch today, part of the ongoing 15-day campaign “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” alongside the countrywide “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan” initiative introduced by the party to unveil the BJP’s deceptive practices, Karra expressed disappointment that rather than addressing the demand for Statehood restoration, the BJP-led Central Government has resorted to dishonest strategies to mislead the populace.
“The patience of the people is diminishing, and residents of Jammu and Kashmir will not endure such tactics from the BJP,” he cautioned, adding that Congress has commenced a campaign to pressure the Central Government into fulfilling its commitment to restore Statehood.
Karra also berated the BJP for its neglect of the Poonch-Rajouri border area concerning railway and road connectivity, infrastructure development, employment opportunities, and overall governance throughout its decade-long rule.
In addressing the concerns raised by Congress leaders, Karra advocated for a specialized development package for the Poonch-Rajouri border area. He highlighted that the residents of this region serve as the country’s frontline defenders yet have faced systematic neglect regarding job prospects, infrastructure growth, and critical connectivity projects like the Railway and expansion of Mughal road initiated by the UPA Government.
Karra stressed the urgent necessity for the enhancement of the Mughal Road, particularly emphasizing the long-overdue construction of a tunnel to establish an all-weather road link between Poonch and Kashmir.
He regretted the BJP Government’s inaction concerning this vital demand, which has adversely affected the economic and logistical lifelines of the region.
Moreover, he voiced disappointment over the halting of cross-LoC trade due to Pakistan’s lack of cooperation and other concerning actions, noting that cross-LoC trade was an essential economic lifeline for the local area. He urged the government to explore all potential avenues for resuming trade to invigorate the regional economy.
Emphasizing the need for a Special Development & Employment Package, the PCC chief lamented the neglect of Poonch in areas like infrastructure, road connectivity, healthcare, and education, demanding immediate interventions to elevate the district and guarantee balanced development.
Working presidents of JKPCC, Tara Chand and Raman Bhalla, AICC Secretary Shah Nawaz Chaudhary, former MP Ch Lal Singh, ex-Chairman of the Legislative Council Jahangir Hussain Mir, DCC president Rajinder Singh Kaka, DDC members Riyaz Chaudhary, Azaz Chaudhary, IYC secretary Ricky Dalotra, among other leaders also spoke at the convention.
