Restore Statehood to end dual power system in J&K: Rattan Lal Gupta

Says  intentionally delaying Statehood, betraying people’s mandate

Jammu, February 11: Strongly advocating for the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), accused the Central government of deliberately delaying the process, thereby weakening democratic institutions and hindering development in the J&K.

Addressing a joining programme here today at Sher-e- Kashmir Bhavan, Jammu, the senior NC leader asserted that in a democracy, an elected government must have absolute authority to function effectively. However, the prevailing dual power structure in Jammu and Kashmir has led to creating unnecessary hurdles in decision-making. The Central Govt had promised in Parliament and in Honble Supreme Court of India to restore full statehood to J&K, but their continuous delays expose their insincerity. The people of J&K feel deceived, as they have been denied their fundamental right to a fully empowered government,” he said.

The senior NC leader emphasized that the absence of complete statehood has stalled development and eroded administrative accountability. “J&K is suffering due to policy paralysis and bureaucratic high-handedness. The lack of a clear governance structure is failing to address public concerns, leaving the region’s progress in limbo,” he added.

Accusing BJP of manipulating power dynamics to suit its political interests, Rattan Lal Gupta said, “By not restoring full statehood, the BJP is deliberately obstructing the commitments made by the National Conference to the people. This intentional delay is proving to be the biggest obstacle in J&K’s development and democratic empowerment.”

Reaffirming National Conference’s dedication to the people of J&K, he assured that his Party remains steadfast in its promise to fulfill all the commitments made to J&K people in its manifesto and work for their rights and aspirations. “We are committed to fulfilling every single promise made to the people. J&K deserves a government that is fully accountable to its citizens, free from any external interference,” he asserted.

Rattan Lal Gupta urged the government at the Centre to honor its commitment and immediately grant full statehood to J&K, ensuring that the democratic and developmental aspirations of the people are upheld without further delay.

On this Occasion those who joined the National Conference included:  Mr Makan Lal Former Chairman BJP Municipal Committee Ramanagar along with prominent and social worker of Ramnagar Mr Raj Kumar and Mr Ragbir.

Those who were present included:- Vijay Lochan Chairman SC Cell, Rakesh Singh Raka Vice President Central Zone, Vijay Laxmi Datta Senior leader,  Abdul Qayoom Baghwan District President Doda Rural (Bhaderwah), Mohinder Kumar Rana Joint Secretary Central Zone, S. Tejinder Singh District President Jammu Urban YNC,Akash Kharka District President Youth Udhampur Rural and others.