Srinagar, 2 June (H.S.): A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan today, raising a range of issues including the restoration of statehood and concerns related to the tourism sector.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the party’s General Secretary, Rafi Ahmad Mir, said the delegation discussed recent political developments-particularly those following the April 22 incident-as well as ongoing economic and tourism-related challenges.

He said that while the party does not hold any legislative position, the delegation raised the demand for the restoration of Statehood, calling it essential for effective governance.

“We are not part of the legislature, but as a political party, we conveyed our view that statehood is important for the smooth functioning of the Government. The Lieutenant Governor said the matter is under consideration,” Mir stated.

According to a statement from Raj Bhawan, the delegation was led by Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Chairman of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee of the Apni Party. Other members included Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Hilal Ahmad Shah, Abdul Majeed Padder, Muntazir Mohiuddin, and Rafi Ahmad Mir.

“The delegation highlighted various issues of public importance, including the welfare of families affected by unprovoked shelling by Pakistan, promotion of the tourism sector, and strengthening of the disaster management mechanism,” the statement said.

“They also discussed important matters related to the smooth conduct of Muharram. The Lieutenant Governor assured them that appropriate action would be taken to address the issues raised,” it added.

Mir said the delegation emphasized the need for confidence-building measures and consultations between the Government and stakeholders.

“We need to bring the people back-not just for business-but to improve the overall atmosphere. There should be no politics over this. The people on the ground must be consulted,” he said.

He added that the delegation called for relief and support for those in the tourism sector who have suffered losses, particularly following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

“We talked about Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, and raised the issue of closure of major tourist destinations,” he said.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar