KISHTWAR, Oct 21: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference senior leader and Chenab Valley regional spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of failing to support the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that BJP legislators were avoiding discussions on the issue.
Bhagat said the historic state of Jammu and Kashmir, which existed during the rule of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, was reorganised into a Union Territory on August 5, 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370. He alleged that the BJP had failed to demonstrate a clear commitment to restoring full statehood to the region.
The National Conference leader questioned the position of BJP legislators on the issue, claiming that while the Jammu and Kashmir government and legislators from other parties were prepared to discuss statehood restoration, BJP members were not participating in the debate.
Bhagat further alleged that the BJP had disappointed the people of Jammu and Kashmir by failing to ensure the restoration of statehood. He said the prolonged delay had raised concerns among residents regarding political representation, governance and the future administrative status of the Union Territory.
Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to fulfil their commitment to the people, Bhagat called for the restoration of statehood in accordance with the assurances given by the Union government and the directions of the Supreme Court.
He also expressed concern over the difficulties faced by educated unemployed youth in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that the delay in restoring statehood had added to public frustration and uncertainty.
Bhagat maintained that statehood remains a significant issue for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and called upon the BJP to clarify its position and take concrete steps towards fulfilling the demand.
The demand for restoration of statehood continues to be an important political issue in Jammu and Kashmir, with parties expressing differing views on the timeline and process for its implementation.