JAMMU, Feb 15: Criticizing the BJP for deceiving and undermining the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra on Saturday emphasized the urgency of restoring statehood without delay.
Speaking at a well-attended district convention in Poonch, as part of the 15-day long campaign “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” alongside the nationwide initiative “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan,” launched by the party to highlight BJP’s failures, Karra expressed disappointment that instead of addressing the demand for restoring statehood, the BJP-led government at the Centre has resorted to deceitful tactics to mislead the populace.
Key leaders from JKPCC, including Tara Chand, along with other senior Congress officials, also addressed the gathering.
“The patience of the citizens is waning, and the residents of Jammu and Kashmir will not accept the BJP’s tactics any longer,” he cautioned, asserting that the Congress has initiated the “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” campaign to pressure the central government into fulfilling its promise to restore statehood.
Karra criticized the BJP for neglecting the border regions of Poonch-Rajouri regarding railway and road connectivity, infrastructure development, job creation, and overall governance during its decade in power.
In response to demands put forth by Congress leaders, Karra called for a dedicated development package for the Poonch-Rajouri border region.
He stressed that the people of this area form the frontline defense of the nation but have been systematically overlooked in terms of job opportunities, infrastructure growth, and vital connectivity projects like the Railway enhancements and the expansion of the Mughal road initiated by the UPA government.
Karra highlighted the urgent need for the Mughal Road’s expansion, especially the long-awaited tunnel construction to provide an all-weather connection between Poonch and Kashmir.
He lamented the BJP government’s inability to address this pressing demand, which has critically affected the region’s economic and logistical viability.
Moreover, he expressed regret over the halt of cross-LoC trade due to Pakistan’s lack of cooperation and other objectionable actions.
He emphasized that cross-LoC trade was essential for the local economy and urged the government to explore all avenues for its resumption to revitalize the regional economy.
Accentuating the need for a Special Development and Employment Package, the J&K PCC chief regretted the neglect of Poonch in terms of infrastructure, road connectivity, healthcare, and education.
He demanded immediate actions to uplift the district and ensure balanced development.
He also raised serious issues concerning security and border region challenges, urging the government to compensate shelling victims, build better bunkers, and implement enhanced security measures for border residents facing constant threats and hardships.
Criticizing the BJP’s failure to tackle unemployment, Karra called attention to the insufficient job opportunities for local youth. He reaffirmed Congress’s commitment to generating employment, initiating skill development programs, and ensuring transparency in recruitment processes to empower the younger generation.
Karra also condemned the BJP for its divisive politics, reaffirming Congress’s dedication to fostering religious and regional unity.
He commended the traditional harmony in Poonch and reiterated Congress’s secular stance in preserving the region’s social fabric.
Addressing the Agniveer scheme, he questioned the BJP’s policies that negatively impact traditional recruitment practices in the Dogra Regiment.
He demanded a more favorable recruitment policy that respects the aspirations of potential army candidates from the region.
Lastly, Karra assured the people of Poonch that the JKPCC remains committed to prioritizing the district’s interests in seat-sharing discussions and broader political strategies.
He reaffirmed Congress’s unwavering dedication to addressing the region’s concerns and ensuring its rightful role in the state’s developmental journey.
The convention saw enthusiastic participation from Congress leaders and workers, who pledged to intensify their efforts for the rightful demands of Poonch-Rajouri and the overarching goal of restoring statehood. (Agencies)
