NEW DELHI/JAMMU, Jul 14: A delegation of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) from Jammu and Kashmir, led by the party’s J&K President Rafiq Malik and accompanied by J&K State General Secretary Shakeel Ahmed, called on LJP (Ram Vilas) National President and Union Minister Chirag Paswan in New Delhi and discussed a range of issues concerning the Union Territory, with particular emphasis on the early restoration of statehood.
During the meeting, the delegation apprised Paswan of the prevailing political and developmental scenario in Jammu and Kashmir and highlighted the aspirations of the people regarding the restoration of full statehood. They said that the people of J&K have consistently expressed the desire for the return of statehood, which they believe would strengthen democratic governance, improve administrative efficiency and facilitate faster decision-making in matters concerning public welfare and regional development.
Rafiq Malik stressed that while developmental initiatives undertaken by the Central Government have benefited several sectors in the Union Territory, the restoration of statehood remains a key political aspiration of the people. He said that the reinstatement of statehood would further strengthen democratic institutions, enhance public participation in governance and contribute to long-term peace, stability and inclusive development.
The delegation also discussed various public issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir, including employment opportunities for youth, infrastructure development, tourism promotion, industrial investment, better civic amenities and measures aimed at accelerating socio-economic growth across both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
Shakeel Ahmed said that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are looking for greater opportunities in education, skill development and employment, and expressed hope that the Central Government would continue to introduce policies aimed at empowering the younger generation and promoting sustainable development in the region.
According to the party leaders, Chirag Paswan gave a patient hearing to the delegation and assured them that the concerns raised during the meeting would be conveyed to the appropriate forums. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to the development, prosperity and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and emphasized the importance of ensuring balanced and inclusive growth across the Union Territory.
The LJP (Ram Vilas) leaders expressed confidence that continued dialogue between the party leadership and stakeholders from Jammu and Kashmir would help address the aspirations of the people and contribute to strengthening democratic values and development-oriented governance in the Union Territory.