Rahul Gandhi Vows to Restore Statehood to Jammu & Kashmir

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pledged that restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would be the first act of the INDIA bloc government if they come to power, criticizing the BJP for delaying the process. He spoke about the injustices faced under the current setup and accused the BJP and RSS of undermining democracy.

In a fervent rally on Wednesday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asserted that the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a fundamental duty of every citizen and will be the foremost action of an INDIA bloc government if the Modi administration does not act post assembly polls.

Speaking to a large gathering 75 kilometers from Srinagar, Gandhi emphasized, 'The responsibility to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir lies not just with Congress or the INDIA bloc, but with the entire nation.' The contentious issue, he noted, has seen the BJP stalling restoration until after elections.

Criticizing the appointment of the current lieutenant governor, Gandhi claimed, 'The LG is acting like a 21st-century king, depriving local people of benefits and jobs, and favoring outsiders.' He accused the BJP and RSS of attacking democratic institutions, exacerbating social injustices, and seizing control across the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)