SRINAGAR, Dec 29: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra on Sunday cautioned that the shrinking democratic space in Jammu and Kashmir could have far-reaching consequences, alleging that voices within the mainstream political spectrum are being deliberately suppressed through what he described as an undemocratic approach.
Addressing reporters at the party headquarters here, Karra said the treatment being meted out to elected representatives reflects a troubling pattern that undermines democratic norms. He cited recent incidents in which an elected representative was booked under the Public Safety Act, a sitting Member of Parliament was placed under house arrest, and other leaders were allegedly prevented from expressing their views.
Referring to the house arrest of Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi ahead of a proposed protest against the reservation policy, Karra said such actions mark a significant shift in the political landscape of the Union Territory.
“There was a time when mainstream political leaders confronted separatist ideologies openly and paid a heavy price for standing by democratic values,” he said. “Today, it is deeply concerning that the same measures once used to curb separatism appear to be applied against mainstream political voices. This is not a healthy sign for democracy.”
Describing politics as a contest of ideas rather than coercion, the JKPCC chief said silencing elected representatives erodes public trust and widens the gap between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country. He warned that when even mainstream leaders feel unheard, the sense of alienation among people is bound to deepen.
On the long-pending demand for restoration of statehood, Karra reiterated that the Congress has remained consistent in raising the issue both inside and outside electoral politics. He said the party had organised sustained protests, including demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, to keep the demand alive at the national level.
“The movement for statehood was born in Jammu and Kashmir and later found resonance at the national level,” he said, noting that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had acknowledged the legitimacy of the demand. Karra said the Congress remains open to participating in any joint initiative aimed at restoring statehood and urged other political forces to come together on the issue.
Karra also strongly condemned recent incidents of alleged harassment of Kashmiris in Himachal Pradesh, terming them unacceptable and damaging to national unity. He said he had personally spoken to the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and urged strict action against those involved.
Touching upon organisational matters, Karra said several new faces have joined the Congress after the recent elections, many of whom secured substantial public support. He said their decision reflects a growing perception that the Congress represents a principled and non-compromising political force committed to secularism and democratic values.
“There is a realisation among people that strengthening the Congress is essential for safeguarding inclusive politics and resisting divisive agendas,” he said, adding that the party would continue to move forward in an organised and people-centric manner.