National Conference MPs Meet President Murmu to Discuss Jammu and Kashmir Concerns
Synopsis
In a significant meeting, National Conference MPs presented a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu, urging the restoration of statehood and addressing unemployment and environmental challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. Their visit highlights ongoing concerns in the region.
Key Takeaways
Meeting with President Murmu: NC MPs discussed critical issues facing Jammu and Kashmir.
Call for Statehood: Urgent request for restoring full statehood to the region.
Employment Initiatives: Emphasis on creating an economic package to combat youth unemployment.
Hydroelectric Projects: Demand for the return of local hydroelectric power projects to benefit the region.
Environmental Concerns: Addressing climate change and glacier retreat is vital for the Himalayan ecosystem.
Srinagar, March 13 (NationPress) Members of the National Conference (NC) in Parliament had a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi on Friday, where they presented a memorandum addressing critical issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir.
A statement from the NC indicated that Rajya Sabha MPs Chowdhary Ramzan, Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, and Shammi Oberoi met with President Murmu and brought forward urgent matters regarding Jammu and Kashmir.
"The Members firmly requested the prompt reinstatement of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, aligning with commitments made during parliamentary discussions," the statement revealed.
"They underscored the necessity to safeguard the land and employment rights of local residents, advocating for a comprehensive economic and job initiative to tackle the rising unemployment crisis among the youth," it added.
"Additionally, the MPs argued for the return of significant hydroelectric power projects currently managed by NHPC Limited to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the region deserves a fair share of the benefits derived from its natural resources," it continued.
"They also brought attention to severe environmental concerns in the region, such as the effects of climate change and the alarming retreat of glaciers like the Kolahoi Glacier, calling for immediate scientific and policy measures to protect the delicate Himalayan ecosystem," the statement concluded.
Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan, Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, and Shammi Oberoi represent the NC in the Rajya Sabha.
In October of the previous year, four individuals were elected to the Rajya Sabha from Jammu and Kashmir.
Alongside these three from the NC, Sat Sharma from the BJP secured the fourth seat in the Rajya Sabha representing the Union Territory.
These four seats had remained vacant since February 2021 due to the absence of a state assembly in Jammu and Kashmir until elections were conducted in October 2024 after the region was under President's Rule since June 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues did the NC MPs raise with President Murmu?
The NC MPs highlighted the need for restoring full statehood, protecting local land and job rights, addressing unemployment, and returning hydroelectric projects to Jammu and Kashmir.
Who are the NC MPs that met President Murmu?
The MPs who met President Murmu are Chowdhary Ramzan, Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, and Shammi Oberoi.
Why is the return of hydroelectric projects important?
The MPs argued that Jammu and Kashmir should benefit from its natural resources, including the hydroelectric projects currently operated by NHPC Limited.
What environmental concerns were mentioned?
The MPs raised alarms over climate change impacts and the retreat of glaciers, emphasizing the need for urgent interventions to protect the Himalayan ecosystem.
What is the current political situation in Jammu and Kashmir?
Jammu and Kashmir has been without a state assembly since February 2021 and was under President's Rule until elections were held in October 2024.
