Karra urges PM Modi, Home Minister to act on statehood promise

Srinagar, Oct 30: JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra today urged the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to fulfill their longstanding promise of restoring statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

During a public outreach programme in Central Shalteng, Karra said that the repeated commitments for statehood made by the nation’s leaders are now due for realisation.

"Our Prime Minister, Home Minister, and the central government have made repeated promises of restoring statehood — in Parliament, at public rallies, and prominently during election campaigns,” PCC Chief said. “It is time for these assurances to move beyond words to decisive action."

Highlighting the critical need for full statehood, Karra said that the demand goes beyond symbolism and is essential for effective governance. “Statehood is not just a symbolic demand but the foundation for responsive and empowered governance,” he said, adding that the lack of full statehood restricts the J&K’s decision-making capacity on vital issues such as unemployment, economic development, education, healthcare, and business reforms.

Karra added that restoring statehood would enable the construction of modern infrastructure, provide avenues for competitive exam preparation, and ensure accessible healthcare for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir. "Full statehood would serve as a gateway to lasting reforms," he said adding that it is essential for tackling our pressing challenges head-on.

The Congress leader stressed that the prolonged wait has created frustration among citizens who seek progress and stability through a fully empowered government.