Fulfill promise of statehood, protection of jobs: DyCM
Srinagar, Jan 26: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary Sunday made a strong pitch for the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir and for the constitutional protection of jobs and land for local residents.
Unfurling the Tricolour at the Bakshi Stadium, on the 76th Republic Day, Choudhary said that the J&K statehood was a constitutional right that should be restored without delay.
“Statehood is the rightful demand of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, both in Parliament, had promised to restore statehood to J&K. They also assured our youth that jobs and land would be safeguarded for locals, and would not be handed over to outsiders,” Choudhary said during his speech, referring to the promises made by central leadership.
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood was essential not just for governance but for the restoration of J&K’s dignity and self-esteem. “Jammu & Kashmir is not just a piece of land; it is a place that holds a unique identity. The immediate restoration of statehood is critical to restore the peace and development of the region,” he added.
Choudhary’s address on Republic Day was significant, marking the first time in six years that an elected representative delivered the speech at the Republic Day event in Jammu and Kashmir.
National Conference (NC) returned to power in J&K following the first assembly elections held after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Referring to the special status, Choudhary reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir’s demand for special status was not only a political plea but was sought within the constitutional framework.
“As we celebrate the Constitution of India today, the demand for special status is not just a political agenda; it is rooted in this very Constitution. This government will play its role in fulfilling the genuine demands of the people. Statehood is crucial to establishing the people’s trust and faith in governance,” he said.
Drawing from J&Ks historical context, Choudhary invoked the legacy of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, the founder of the National Conference, known as “Sher-i-Kashmir.” He explained how Sheikh Abdullah’s vision for prosperity laid the foundation for a unified Jammu and Kashmir.
“Sheikh Abdullah sahib paved the way for prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir, and his son, Dr Farooq Abdullah, along with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, have followed the same path of promoting peace, unity, and development,” he said.
Choudhary further highlighted the unique secular character of Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “This land has always been a symbol of tolerance and coexistence. It is a place where a lion and a lamb could drink water from the same source. Even Mahatma Gandhi saw in Jammu and Kashmir a ray of hope for India’s secularism.”
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Choudhary paid tribute to those who had fought to protect the three divisions and the country.
“While Ladakh is now a separate Union Territory, we will never forget the sacrifices made by the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh to protect the integrity of J&K and India,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also made it clear that the government, under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, was committed to fulfilling the promises made during the elections.
“The people have placed their trust in the electoral process and it is our duty to ensure that we meet their expectations. This includes the restoration of special status, rationalization of reservation quotas, employment opportunities, better electricity supply, and tackling the drug menace,” he said.
Choudhary expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing plight of Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to leave the Valley in the 1990s.
“It pains us all, including Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, that Kashmiri Pandits were displaced from their homes. This government is fully committed to making every effort to facilitate the return of Pandits to the Valley and ensure their safe and dignified rehabilitation,” he assured.
The speech concluded with a call for local unity and peace. “The restoration of statehood is essential to restore the confidence and self-respect of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Our government will work tirelessly to bring about that change, and to bring prosperity to this beautiful land,” Choudhary affirmed.