New Delhi, Apr 12 : As Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a rally in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur, the Congress has criticized the BJP-led Centre for allegedly suspending democracy in the Union Territory. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the delay in holding Assembly polls and accused the government of suppressing democracy.
Ramesh highlighted the absence of an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the BJP withdrew support to the Mehbooba Mufti-led government in 2018. He pointed out that despite the Supreme Court’s deadline of September 2024 for conducting Assembly polls, the BJP government has delayed the process.
The Congress leader raised concerns about the expiration of the terms of various local governance bodies, leaving the people without elected representatives. He questioned the government’s reluctance to hold fresh elections and accused PM Modi of clinging to power without popular mandate.
Ramesh also criticized the delay in restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, as promised by Home Minister Amit Shah. He highlighted the discrepancy between the government’s promises of development and the actual progress on the ground, particularly in the industrial and hospitality sectors.
Meanwhile, PM Modi, addressing the rally in Udhampur, emphasized the improved security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, urging voters to trust him to address the region’s longstanding issues. He challenged political parties, especially the Congress, on the issue of Article 370, asserting that they cannot reinstate it.
The Congress’s questions underscore growing concerns about the democratic process and development in Jammu and Kashmir, as the region continues to grapple with political uncertainty and economic challenges.
