JAMMU MARCH 01 (KNS): National Conference Additional General Secretary and Former Minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today strongly criticized the prevailing dual control in the governance of Jammu and Kashmir, saying it is detrimental to democratic aspirations of the people, who have already suffered immensely, particularly over the past decade due to mis-governance by the double engine sarkar, said Sadhotra while addressing a public meeting at Gurha Brahmana in Jammu North Assembly Constituency which was organized by Surinder Manhas.
Sadhotra urged the Central Government to fulfill its long-standing commitment of restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, which it has, time and again, promised not only on the floor of Parliament but also in the Apex Court of the country. He emphasized that only a duly elected popular government can truly represent and address the needs of the people, ensuring their aspirations are met through democratic means.
In a statement, Sadhotra said, “the people of Jammu and Kashmir have endured years of political uncertainty and administrative neglect. The dual control in governance not only weakens democratic institutions but also deprives the people of their fundamental right to self-governance. It is high time that the Centre honors its promise of restoring full statehood and ensures the decentralization of powers.”
Sadhotra referred to the overwhelming participation of the people in the Assembly Elections, despite numerous challenges, saying the huge turnout reflected their unwavering faith in democracy.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHowever, continuing with dual control undermines this faith and disregards the mandate given by the people, he said, adding: “Braving all odds, the people came out in large numbers to vote, demonstrating their trust in the democratic process.
But depriving them of participation in the governance through elected representatives amounts to an insult to their right to shape their own destiny.”
Reiterating the National Conference’s stand on the issue, Sadhotra said that his party remains committed to advocating for the complete restoration of statehood and a fully empowered government to assuage the urges of the people. He urged the Centre to take immediate steps to remove the existing administrative roadblocks and ensure that the reins of governance remain under the popular government.
“Jammu and Kashmir deserves to be governed by its own people, not through remote control. The aspirations of the people can only be fulfilled when their chosen leaders are given the authority to govern without undue interference,” he added.
The National Conference hoped that the Centre will take an immediate call on the restoration of full statehood and ensure that democracy prevails and the people of Jammu and Kashmir regain their rightful control over their own future.
Others who were present in the meeting were Raghubir Singh Manhas District President Jammu Rural A, Randhir Singh Secretary Rural A, Vishaw Singh District Secretary Jammu Rural and others. (KNS)