New Era in J&K: Ramzan Champions Power Restoration in Maiden Rajya Sabha Speech

Chowdry Mohammed Ramzan, a newly elected NC Rajya Sabha member, expressed concerns over limited governmental powers in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that the Lieutenant Governor holds primary authority. In his speech, he highlighted the historical significance and people's mandate in the region, calling for restored state powers.

Chowdry Mohammed Ramzan, the newly elected member of the National Conference (NC) for the Rajya Sabha, used his inaugural speech to spotlight the restricted powers of Jammu and Kashmir's elected officials. According to Ramzan, the real authority lies with the Lieutenant Governor, not the elected government, revealing a deep-seated issue within the political framework of the region.

The speech, delivered soon after his oath-taking ceremony, underscored the significant divide between public mandate and actual administrative control. This election marked the first Rajya Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir since its bifurcation in 2019. Ramzan, alongside his NC colleagues and BJP's Sat Sharma, has taken office at a time when the strategic location and political past of the region are of considerable importance.

Ramzan's comments drew praise from key political figures, including Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and NC chief Farooq Abdullah. Despite diversions during his speech, Ramzan maintained focus on the pressing need for governmental empowerment, backing the call for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and highlighting the paramount aspirations of its populace.

(With inputs from agencies.)