Statehood core issue of all people, BJP disrespecting mandate – Karra
Jammu, February 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President, Tariq Hameed Karra, dismissed speculation regarding a rift between Congress and the National Conference, reaffirming that the party remains an essential part of the Omar Abdullah-led government. Speaking at a press conference in Jammu, Karra emphasized that a coordination committee comprising members from both Congress and the National Conference would soon be formed to ensure smooth governance and policy alignment.
He reiterated that Congress is actively engaging with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through its 15-day campaign, focusing on the urgent need for the immediate restoration of statehood. He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for failing to act on promises made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the issue. Karra also questioned the silence of BJP leaders who received a strong mandate from Jammu, urging them to clarify their position and take concrete steps to advocate for statehood at the national level.
Expressing concerns over bureaucratic overreach, Karra highlighted that despite the formation of a popular government led by the National Conference, several officials continue to operate with unchecked authority reminiscent of the previous Lieutenant Governor’s administration. He pointed to the Congress workers’ convention in Kishtwar, where the party was granted conditional permission but was restricted from holding an outdoor rally and instructed not to discuss certain issues. He argued that such restrictions contradict the BJP’s claims that democracy has been fully restored in Jammu and Kashmir.
Karra also raised key public concerns, including the need for uninterrupted power and water supply, employment generation, and the regularization of daily-wage workers and Special Police Officers (SPOs) who have been serving for decades. He demanded a special power package for the Chenab Valley, citing that despite the presence of major hydro-electric power projects, the local population continues to face electricity shortages.
Addressing questions regarding his son, Waleed Karra, a medical doctor, attending an official meeting chaired by Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo, Karra clarified that his son was present in the capacity of constituency-in-charge for Central Shalteng while he was away in Jammu. He dismissed any controversy, stating that such instances had occurred before and were not unprecedented.
Reaffirming the Congress party’s commitment to standing with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Karra pledged to continue advocating for their rights, ensuring their voices are heard, and pushing for the timely restoration of statehood.