By Tehelka Web Desk
The Congress on Sunday launched a five-day padyatra in Jammu as part of its “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” campaign, reiterating its demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and raising concerns over inflation, unemployment and examination paper leaks.
The march was flagged off by Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariq Hameed Karra in the presence of working president Raman Bhalla, former minister Yogesh Sawhney and other senior party leaders.
Addressing party workers and supporters, Karra said the restoration of statehood was the democratic and constitutional right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He accused the BJP-led Central government of delaying the process despite repeated assurances.
He said the campaign aimed to mobilise public support for the restoration of statehood while drawing attention to issues affecting ordinary citizens, including rising prices, unemployment and increasing fuel costs.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to be deprived of their democratic rights. Congress will continue its struggle on the roads and in democratic forums until statehood is restored,” Karra said.
Referring to the NEET paper leak controversy, Karra alleged that repeated examination irregularities had adversely affected students and job aspirants. He demanded accountability from the Centre over such incidents.
Karra also expressed concern over the deaths of three Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman following a US military strike on a tanker accused of violating a blockade on Iranian ports. He urged the Government of India to take up the issue diplomatically and ensure the safety of Indian nationals working overseas.
Speaking on the occasion, Raman Bhalla said the padyatra was intended to take the concerns of common people to the government. He accused the BJP of failing to address issues such as inflation and unemployment.
Bhalla reiterated the party’s demand for the restoration of full statehood with constitutional safeguards and called upon Congress workers to strengthen the campaign across Jammu and Kashmir.
The padyatra is scheduled to cover several areas of Jammu district over the next five days as part of the party’s public outreach programme.
