Srinagar, Feb 24: Senior CPI(M) leader and former MLA from Kulgam, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami, has called for a “collective fight” to push the Central Government for the restoration of full Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a press conference today, Tarigami emphasized that the Centre must uphold its commitment and respect the people’s mandate, warning that any further delay in the process would be detrimental to the region.
“Statehood is being delayed unnecessarily, and this delay directly impacts the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The mandate given by the people—be it in Jammu or Kashmir—must be respected. If even this fundamental democratic right is denied, then it is both unfortunate and unacceptable,” Tarigami asserted.
Calling upon all political parties, regardless of ideological differences, to come together for a common cause, Tarigami stressed that the issue of Statehood is above politics and affects every citizen in J&K.
“I appeal to all political forces—despite our differences—to unite in demanding that the Government of India fulfill its promise. The restoration of Statehood is crucial not just for those who support me, but even for those who voted against me in previous elections. It is a matter of democratic rights and governance,” he said.
He further reminded the Centre of its assurances, stating that Statehood was promised after the completion of the delimitation process and Assembly elections. He criticized the government for backtracking on its commitments and failing to provide a clear roadmap for the restoration of democratic governance in the region.
Touching upon broader national concerns, Tarigami expressed discontent over the prevailing atmosphere in the country, stating that issues were being deliberately created to disturb communal harmony and distract from real governance challenges.
“At a time when our country needs unity and brotherhood, certain forces are working to create division. Minorities are feeling increasingly alienated, which is not in line with the principles of secular democracy,” he remarked.
He also took aim at the government’s handling of legislative affairs, particularly in the context of the Waqf Bill amendments, which he claimed have undermined the role of Parliamentary committees, thereby weakening the democratic process.
“The rejection of amendments proposed by the opposition has affected the functioning of crucial Parliamentary committees, making them ineffective. This is a direct loss to our country’s Parliamentary democracy,” he said.
Tarigami urged all democratic voices, civil society groups, and political stakeholders in J&K to keep up the pressure on the Centre, emphasizing that restoring Statehood is not a privilege but a democratic right that must not be denied any further. He warned that continued neglect of public sentiment could further alienate the people of J&K and undermine their faith in the democratic process.