Jammu

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariq Hameed Karra on Saturday slammed the BJP-led central government over the continued denial of statehood to the Union Territory, asserting that restoring statehood is a matter of the people's democratic and constitutional rights.

"Statehood is not a favour to the people of JK; it is their legitimate right and a question of dignity and democratic representation," Karra said, addressing a 'Chopal Pe Charcha' programme at Chattha.

He highlighted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have consistently expressed their desire for the restoration of their democratic and constitutional rights, asserting that statehood should not be viewed as a concession from the government.

He said the continued delay in restoring statehood amounted to keeping the people deprived of full democratic representation and constitutional safeguards associated with a state government.

He assured that Congress would continue to raise these issues both within and outside democratic institutions, ensuring that the genuine concerns of the public would not be silenced.

The Congress leader hit out at the government for its "attempt to divert public attention" through committees and inquiries that fail to inspire confidence among the people.

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He appealed to people, particularly the youth, to remain united and raise their voices democratically, assuring them that Congress would continue to fight for justice, restoration of statehood and the protection of the democratic rights and aspirations of the people of JK.