Rahul Gandhi Vows to Restore Statehood and Democratic Rights in Jammu and Kashmir

Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party, prioritizing the restoration of statehood and democratic rights in Jammu and Kashmir, promise to address the concerns raised after the state was turned into a union territory. They emphasize resolving the current political challenges and ensuring fair elections in the region.

In a press conference on Thursday, Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi asserted that it is both his and his party's duty to ensure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir regain their democratic rights and statehood is restored. Gandhi emphasized that the Congress Party, alongside the INDIA alliance, prioritizes this goal.

'We had hoped for statehood restoration before the elections, but now that elections are announced, we anticipate it happening shortly. Restoring the rights of Jammu and Kashmir's residents is crucial as this is the first instance of a state turning into a union territory,' Gandhi said. He firmly stated that their national manifesto highlights this priority, ensuring democratic rights for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Central government for not fulfilling promises made to Jammu and Kashmir, pledging under Rahul Gandhi's leadership to restore statehood. Kharge highlighted that contrary to historical trends, Jammu and Kashmir has seen a dismantling of democracy, devoid of councils or assemblies.

Kharge stated, 'Neither BJP nor PM Modi can suppress people's voices. We are committed to standing by the people and supporting their aspirations.' Today, Rahul Gandhi also met with National Conference President Farooq Abdullah in Srinagar. The Congress Party is expected to ally with the National Conference for upcoming state polls, although a formal announcement is pending. Together, the parties are part of the INDIA bloc and contested the Lok Sabha elections collaboratively.

The election process in Jammu and Kashmir will unfold in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with results tallying on October 4. This marks the first election in the region since the abrogation of Article 370 and after a decade since the last assembly election in 2014. The previous coalition government of PDP-BJP fell in June 2018. Last December, the Supreme Court mandated that the Centre complete the election process by September 30, 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)