JAMMU, Aug 5: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) Kissan Congress Chairman Bharat Priye on Wednesday said that August 5 remains a significant day in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir and renewed the Congress party’s demand for the restoration of full statehood to the Union Territory.
In a statement issued here, Bharat Priye said that the Congress has consistently maintained that while constitutional changes have taken place, the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be respected through the restoration of democratic institutions and full statehood.
He said that Jammu and Kashmir’s transition from a full-fledged state to a Union Territory has reduced the powers of elected representatives and affected democratic governance. “The people deserve a government with full constitutional authority that is accountable to them. Restoring statehood is essential for strengthening democracy, ensuring effective administration and addressing public issues more efficiently,” he said.
The JKPCC Kissan Congress Chairman stated that farmers, horticulturists and rural communities continue to face numerous challenges, including rising input costs, inadequate irrigation facilities, unpredictable weather, crop losses and limited marketing opportunities. He said these issues require a strong, empowered government capable of taking timely decisions in the interest of the farming community.
Bharat Priye said that despite repeated assurances regarding the restoration of statehood, the promise is yet to be fulfilled. He urged the Union Government to honour its commitment and restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood at the earliest so that democratic governance can function in its true spirit.
He further said that safeguarding the interests of farmers and rural youth should be at the centre of public policy. Greater investment in agriculture, horticulture, irrigation infrastructure, rural roads, cold storage facilities and market linkages, he said, is necessary to improve rural livelihoods and generate employment.
Reiterating the Congress party’s commitment to constitutional values, Bharat Priye said dialogue, democratic participation and inclusive governance remain the most effective means of addressing the aspirations of the people. He stressed that peace, development and economic progress can be sustained only when democratic institutions are strengthened and public confidence is reinforced.
Appealing to the people to maintain peace, communal harmony and brotherhood, Bharat Priye said that Jammu and Kashmir’s rich pluralistic traditions must continue to guide its future. He expressed hope that all stakeholders would work together to build a prosperous, democratic and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir where farmers, youth and every section of society receive equal opportunities for growth and development.