Call for Statehood Sparks Debate in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly

Tariq Hameed Karra, the president of Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, has urged the central government to clarify the timeline for restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the importance of unity, comprehensive plans for Kashmiri Pandits' rehabilitation, and attention to the needs of West Pakistani refugees.

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president, Tariq Hameed Karra, has called on the central government to articulate a definitive timeline for reinstating statehood to the region. This plea was made during the motion of thanks on the Lt Governor's address at the legislative assembly.

Karra proposed the formation of an all-party MLA panel tasked with facilitating the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits. He stressed that the democratic process in Jammu and Kashmir was only restored following the Supreme Court's intervention, highlighting that a lack of clarity over statehood undermines public trust.

Further, Karra criticized the omission of statehood in the current address, a point previously mentioned but now conspicuously lacking. He also pointed out the need for a comprehensive plan to ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley, alongside addressing issues faced by West Pakistani refugees.

(With inputs from agencies.)