JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
On Monday, the state unit of the Congress in Jammu and Kashmir held a strong protest against the central government and demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A large number of party workers gathered outside the state Congress office at Shaheed Chowk in Jammu. The protest was led by State Congress Committee President Tariq Hameed Karra.
During the protest, workers expressed their anger against the central government by raising slogans like “Restore statehood,” “Our state is our right.” Congress leaders said that stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its statehood is against the democratic system and it should be restored soon.
Tariq Hameed Karra alleged that the central government’s policies have damaged the country’s international image. He said that India once played a leading role in the Non-Aligned Movement and regional cooperation forums, but now the old principles of foreign policy appear to be weakening.
Congress leaders also alleged that pressure from foreign countries on India regarding trade and energy issues is increasing, which is not in the country’s interest. They said that the government should adopt an independent and balanced foreign policy to protect the country’s interests.
During the protest, some activists also burned the flags of the United States and Israel. Congress leaders reiterated their demand for the immediate restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that it is the constitutional right of the people of the state.
Meanwhile, Congress workers also protested outside the party office in Srinagar. MLA Nizamuddin Bhat led the protest. The activists attempted to march, but police closed the office gates and prevented them from leaving.
Congress leaders alleged that party workers were prevented from protesting in several districts, and some leaders were even placed under house arrest, which is a violation of democratic rights.
The party also criticized the central government for rising inflation and the continuous increase in cooking gas prices. Congress leaders say that due to inflation, there is an additional financial burden on the common people and the government should take immediate steps to provide relief.
