Should legislation be introduced in the Monsoon Session to restore statehood to J&K?
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Synopsis
In a push for justice, the Congress party is demanding the restoration of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. As tensions rise within the region and the party, the call for legislation in the Monsoon Session is both timely and critical.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent call for statehood restoration for Jammu and Kashmir.
- Political tensions within the Congress party's Jammu and Kashmir unit.
- Historical context of Jammu and Kashmir's status change.
- Prime Minister's commitments to restore statehood.
- Ladakh’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule is also being sought.
New Delhi, July 16 (NationPress) The Congress party is calling on the Central Government to present legislation during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament aimed at restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has been designated a union territory since its reorganization in 2019.
In a joint letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized the urgency of passing a bill to reinstate statehood for the UT.
“Over the past five years, the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir have persistently demanded the restoration of full statehood. This request is not only legitimate but also firmly rooted in their constitutional and democratic rights,” the letter expressed.
The Congress leaders highlighted that, historically, union territories have been granted statehood, making Jammu and Kashmir’s situation unique. “This marks the first instance in independent India where a full-fledged state has been downgraded to a Union Territory following its bifurcation,” they noted.
Referencing the Prime Minister’s public assurances, the letter reminded him of his previous commitments to restore statehood.
“You have, on numerous occasions, reiterated the government's pledge to restore statehood. In your interview in Bhubaneswar on May 19, 2024, you stated: ‘Restoring statehood is a solemn promise we have made and we stand by it.’ Furthermore, during a rally in Srinagar on September 19, 2024, you reaffirmed: ‘We have expressed in Parliament our intention to restore the region's statehood,’” the letter conveyed.
The letter also recalled the Centre’s statement to the Supreme Court during discussions on Article 370, where it assured that statehood would be restored at the “earliest opportunity.”
“In light of this, we urge the Government to present legislation during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament to grant full statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir,” the letter concluded.
This demand arises amidst internal strife within the party’s Jammu and Kashmir unit, where senior leaders are challenging state unit chief Tariq Hameed Karra, a former PDP leader, and advocating for his ousting. Additionally, the party's relationship with the National Conference has become strained, despite their partnership in the INDIA bloc.
Furthermore, the Congress party has called for legislation to incorporate Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
“This would represent a significant advancement in addressing the cultural, developmental, and political aspirations of the people of Ladakh, while also protecting their rights, land, and identity,” the letter concluded.
Point of View
The demand for restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir reflects not only the aspirations of its people but also the broader implications for governance and unity in the region. The Congress party's call for legislation during the Monsoon Session is a pivotal moment that underscores the necessity for dialogue and resolution in a historically complex area.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Jammu and Kashmir?
Since its reorganization in 2019, Jammu and Kashmir has been classified as a union territory, lacking full statehood.
Who are the key political figures involved in the statehood demand?
The Congress party leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are spearheading the demand for statehood restoration.
Why is statehood for Jammu and Kashmir significant?
Restoring statehood is vital for addressing the democratic and constitutional rights of the residents, allowing for self-governance.
What legislation is being proposed?
The Congress party is urging the Central Government to introduce legislation in the Monsoon Session to restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
How does this issue affect Ladakh?
The Congress party is also advocating for legislation to include Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, addressing its unique cultural and political needs.
