“Return of KPs must be ensured with dignity and security”
SRINAGAR, May 16: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) has launched a sharp attack on the Central Government from the Kashmir Valley, stating that the people of Jammu & Kashmir will no longer remain satisfied with mere assurances. The party demanded that New Delhi must clearly define both its policy and intent, and restore the constitutional and democratic rights of the region without further delay.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar on the second day of the party’s three-day Kashmir visit, Shiv Sena (UBT) Jammu & Kashmir unit president Manish Sahni said, “The distance between the hearts of the people and Delhi must be reduced, and Jammu & Kashmir must regain its full dignity and rights.”
He strongly demanded the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu & Kashmir and called for strengthening democratic institutions. Sahni said that curtailing the powers of an elected government goes against the spirit of democracy and weakens the voice of the people.
Sahni also demanded that Jammu & Kashmir be brought under a constitutional protection framework similar to the safeguards granted to several northeastern and border states under Article 371. He stated that if northeastern and other border states can be given special protections considering their unique geographical and social conditions, then Jammu & Kashmir — a border region that has faced the grave challenge of terrorism for nearly four decades — also deserves a fair and equitable approach.
He further said that a strong constitutional and administrative framework is necessary to safeguard the interests of local residents, ensuring that local youth have the first right over land, resources, and employment opportunities.
Sahni accused the Centre of centralizing decision-making through the Lieutenant Governor system, saying it runs contrary to the democratic mandate of the people. He urged the Government of India to release a clear and time-bound roadmap regarding the political future of Jammu & Kashmir.
On the issue of the return of Kashmiri Pandits, the party stated that the rehabilitation process should not be restricted merely to providing housing colonies. Shiv Sena (UBT) maintained that the return of displaced Kashmiri Pandit families to the Valley must ensure security, dignity, and social acceptance, enabling them to reconnect with their original social and cultural environment.
During the programme held in Srinagar, several youths and social activists from different districts joined Shiv Sena (UBT), expressing faith in the party’s ideology. Party leaders said the growing support reflects that people are now looking toward leadership that can strongly advocate for their rights and aspirations.