“Before It’s Too Late”: Tony urges Centre to restore J&K Statehood

Jammu, Sept 24:DDC Suchetgarh and senior Congress leader Taranjit Singh Tony on Wednesday delivered a strong warning to the Union Government, demanding early restoration of statehood to Jammu & Kashmir and cautioning that the people of the Union Territory are “fully prepared to launch massive protests” if the commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not honoured.

Linking his statement to today’s violent demonstrations in Leh over the statehood issue, Tony said the incident is a clear signal of public resentment across the region.

“The Leh protests are a lesson for the Centre. People of Jammu and Kashmir are equally determined to fight for their democratic rights. Before it is too late, the Government of India must grant statehood or be ready to face similar agitation here,” he asserted.

Tony emphasized that the demand is not political posturing but a reflection of the “deep aspirations and sentiments of the people of J&K.”

“Statehood is the rightful demand of our people. It is about dignity, representation, and respect for democracy,” he added.

Accusing the BJP-led government of deliberate delay, the Congress leader questioned whether the Centre’s hesitation is linked to electoral setbacks.

“Is the Centre holding back because it failed to form the government after losing the Assembly elections? If so, it is a direct insult to the democratic mandate,” Tony charged.

The senior Congress leader further said that every section of society—farmers, youth, traders, and employees—feels alienated and wants their voice represented through a full-fledged state government.

“Jammu and Kashmir cannot be run permanently through bureaucratic control. People want their own government, accountable to them, not distant officers,” he said.

Tony urged the Union Government to honour its commitment without further delay, warning that patience among citizens is running out.

“If the Centre continues to ignore the will of the people, protests will erupt across every district of Jammu and Kashmir. The government must act now to avoid an uncontrollable situation,” he concluded.