Civil Society of Jammu demands separate statehood

By sameer
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07 Jan 2026

Jammu, Jan 07: Over 70 prominent citizens of Jammu city on Wednesday unanimously demanded the creation of a separate state for Jammu, alleging persistent political, economic, and developmental discrimination since 1947. The meeting, attended by intellectuals, scholars, business leaders, and social activists from diverse backgrounds, called for regional autonomy to address long-standing grievances. The deliberations focused on issues that participants described as systemic and enduring in nature, a statement issued here said. Foremost among these were allegations of sustained discrimination against the Jammu Province, an overtly anti-Jammu orientation of Kashmir-based political leadership, and the chronic neglect of Jammu’s developmental aspirations since 1947. Speakers highlighted "disparities" in political representation, resource allocation, administrative focus, and infrastructural development, arguing that these inequities have cumulatively constrained Jammu’s economic growth and social progress. Several participants underscored that despite Jammu’s strategic importance, demographic diversity, and substantial contribution to the region’s economy and security, the province has remained marginalised in policy-making and governance. Concerns were also raised regarding uneven development indicators, inadequate industrial growth, limited employment opportunities for youth, and perceived neglect of border and hilly areas within the province, the statement said. At the conclusion of the meeting, a resolution was unanimously adopted demanding the creation of a separate state for Jammu. The resolution asserted that the demand for separate statehood is neither reactionary nor driven by parochial considerations, but is rooted in the imperative of ensuring equitable governance, balanced development, and political dignity for the people of Jammu. The participants collectively reiterated that "a separate Jammu is not a matter of luxury or political convenience, but a survival need". They emphasised that statehood would enable focused governance, transparent administration, and region-specific development planning, thereby addressing the long-standing grievances of the people. The civil society representatives resolved to continue democratic, peaceful, and constitutional engagement to build wider awareness on the issue and to mobilise public opinion across the province. It was also agreed that similar consultations would be held in other districts of Jammu to consolidate consensus and articulate a coherent roadmap for the future, the statement added.