Jammu, 2 August (H.S.): National Conference additional general secretary and former Minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today demanded for the immediate restoration of Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

The NC leader was addressing a public meeting, which was organized by Jatinder Singh Lucky, Akshay Kumar and Ginni Singh.

Sadhotra said, “The people of Jammu and Kashmir are bearing the brunt of a dual administrative control that lacks accountability and responsiveness. The Governance has taken a serious hit. Decisions that affect the everyday lives of citizens are either delayed or lost in bureaucratic Wrangles. This system is no substitute for the inherent powers of a democratically elected Government. Dual administrative control has created chaos and confusion.”

“The BJP should not make this a matter of political prestige. This is not about any one party or ideology. The demand for restoration of Statehood is a broad-based and deeply rooted aspiration that cuts across party lines. The continuing delay is tantamount to a betrayal of the people’s mandate,” he said.

Sadhotra also raised a specific demand concerning residents living in areas under cantonment jurisdiction and called for the streamlining of building permission rules, particularly the relaxation of the 100-yard restriction around army establishments for repairs, renovations and structural modifications.

“This has become imperative as families are growing, splitting and evolving. The rigid norms are severely affecting the housing needs of genuine residents,” he said and called for a humane and practical approach in such matters.

Reiterating the National Conference’s commitment to upholding democratic values and people’s rights, Sadhotra said, “We will continue to amplify the voice of the people and fight for the restoration of full democratic rights, including Statehood, which is essential for peace, dignity and development in Jammu and Kashmir.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar