Congress MP Pramod Tiwari vows to restore J&K statehood

Ahead of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Congress leader Pramod Tiwari has pledged to restore the region's statehood if the party comes to power. This statement comes in the wake of the Indian government's decision in August 2019 to abrogate Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and reorganized it into two Union Territories. Tiwari criticized the BJP-led central government for this move, labeling it as shortsighted and unjust, particularly given the sensitive nature of the region's geopolitical situation. The Congress party has released a document outlining grievances against the current administration, highlighting issues such as unemployment, agricultural distress, and the suppression of local voices under the unelected Lieutenant Governor. The document claims that locals are facing numerous hardships, including rising prices and inadequate public services, while outsiders are benefiting from land and job allocations. It also points out that Jammu and Kashmir has one of the highest unemployment rates in India, with many government positions unfilled since 2019. In response, BJP officials have accused Congress of mismanagement in the region over the past 70 years, alleging that the party has colluded with divisive forces and failed to promote development. They argue that Congress's actions have led to instability and a lack of opportunities for the youth in Jammu and Kashmir. The upcoming assembly elections, the first since the abrogation of Article 370, are set to take place in three phases starting September 18, with 219 candidates vying for positions. The political landscape remains charged as parties prepare to address the pressing issues facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir.