Kulgam, Aug 31: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami on Saturday said the restoration of statehood is a pressing issue and it is the responsibility of “secular” parties to unite and face this challenge head-on.
Tarigami made these remarks while addressing reporters after the conclusion of the CPI(M) rally at Checkpora Kulgam. Later on, he led a roadshow in the interior area of the village.
In his address, Tarigami said elections are being held under “extraordinary circumstances”. He urged the people to be extremely careful and wise in choosing their representatives given the “challenging situation”.
“This is why the Congress-National Conference alliance has been formed, with the CPI(M_ also participating. Whether before or after the election, it is our duty to ensure that secular parties come together to address these challenges and uphold the rights and dignity of the people,” he said. “It is not just a responsibility for the people of Jammu & Kashmir, but also an opportunity to address critical issues.”
The former MLA said there is a dire need to eliminate corruption, reduce electricity fees, tackle unemployment and address the rising prices that are burdening our citizens. “We are all affected by these issues, and we see fear and sadness across the board—whether it is among journalists, writers, activists or even those unjustly incarcerated,” he said.
“The reason for this widespread anxiety is that people feel deprived of the rights promised to them. Fear is being created, and our fundamental rights are being eroded. This is why the upcoming assembly elections are being held under extraordinary circumstances. Our people must be extremely careful and wise in choosing their representatives,” he added.
The CPI(M) leader said the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are “suffering” in multiple ways—be it through employment issues, livelihood challenges, rising prices or the erosion of political and civil rights. “Everywhere you look, there is a lack of effective governance. This has led to widespread discontent,” he said.
“The solution lies in the unity of secular parties,” Tarigami said. “We must come together, narrow our differences and confront the policies that have been implemented since 2014, which have adversely affected the people of Jammu & Kashmir.”
