JAMMU, Sep 19: Social activist Jayesh Gupta led a protest in Jammu under the banner of “Mission Jammu State”, demanding a separate state for Jammu and raising concerns over what he described as continued discrimination against the Jammu division.
Addressing the protesters, Gupta said people in the Jammu region have been raising concerns related to development, employment opportunities, infrastructure and equitable political representation. He called for these concerns to be addressed through concrete and time-bound measures.
Gupta also questioned the silence of BJP legislators from Jammu on issues that, according to him, affect the interests of the region. He sought answers from elected representatives regarding their response to the concerns being raised by sections of the public.
“The people of Jammu want answers from their elected representatives. Why are BJP MLAs from Jammu remaining silent on issues of alleged discrimination against the Jammu division?” Gupta asked.
He further alleged that the situation in Jammu had deteriorated on several fronts and called upon elected representatives to remain responsive to issues raised by the people.
The protesters demanded greater political and administrative empowerment of Jammu, equitable development, protection of regional interests and consideration of the demand for a separate Jammu State.
Gupta appealed to political representatives, civil society organisations and residents of Jammu to come together and raise regional issues through peaceful and democratic means.
The protest concluded with the participants calling upon the authorities and elected representatives to respond to the issues raised and initiate a dialogue on the region’s political, administrative and developmental concerns.