In a press conference after meeting with party workers in Jammu and Kashmir, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi expressed his party's priority to restore statehood to the region. With assembly polls set for September and October, Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge spoke with party leaders to get feedback on preparations. With the state's downgrade to a Union Territory, Congress has made it a priority to regain democratic rights for the people of J-K and Ladakh.
Congress Prioritizes Statehood Restoration for Jammu and Kashmir
Background:
In 2019, the Indian government abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The state was subsequently downgraded to a Union Territory (UT), governed directly by the central government.
This move was met with widespread protests and criticism from political parties, including the Congress, which has consistently opposed the revocation of Article 370.
Current Developments:
Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi recently visited Jammu and Kashmir and met with party workers. In a press conference, he emphasized the party's commitment to restoring statehood to the region.
"We are committed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir that we will restore statehood, protect their land, and ensure their rights," Gandhi said.
With assembly polls scheduled for September and October, the Congress leadership has begun preparations for the elections. Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge held discussions with local leaders to gather feedback on campaign strategy.
FAQs:
1. Why is the Congress prioritizing statehood restoration for Jammu and Kashmir?
The Congress believes that the revocation of Article 370 was unconstitutional and has deprived the people of Jammu and Kashmir of their democratic rights. Restoring statehood is seen as a way to empower the people and address their grievances.
2. What are the steps involved in restoring statehood?
The process of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would require a constitutional amendment passed by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The amendment would then need to be ratified by at least half of the state legislatures.
3. What is the likelihood of statehood being restored?
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the center has repeatedly stated that it has no plans to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. However, the Congress has said that it would make statehood restoration a priority if it comes to power.
4. How will the upcoming assembly polls affect the statehood issue?
The results of the assembly polls could influence the political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir and potentially pave the way for discussions on statehood restoration.
5. What are the other demands of the Congress in Jammu and Kashmir?
In addition to statehood restoration, the Congress has also demanded the release of political prisoners, protection of land rights, and the creation of more employment opportunities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
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