Kulgam, Feb 24: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami on Monday urged all political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to set aside their differences and unite in demanding the restoration of statehood.
The MLA from Kulgam said that political rivals often come together for larger causes. “Yesterday, we contested against each other—that’s democracy. Now, shouldn’t we, as political forces, collectively remind the Central government of its promise of statehood? There should be no further delay,” he said while speaking to reporters here.
Tarigami said that while many developments are taking place in the country, some go against the interests of the people. Calling for unity and brotherhood, he said collective efforts are needed to safeguard society.
He expressed concern that certain government policies could harm communal harmony and create distress among minorities. “Those who participated in the independence movement envisioned a modern country where everyone could live together and secure their future,” he said.
The CPI(M) leader said India is known as a secular democracy, which means equal opportunities for all in politics and administration. However, he cautioned against government overreach in shaping public perspectives. “The Constitution states that we are all equal, yet today, issues like the Mandir-Masjid debate and the Uniform Civil Code are creating divisions,” he said.
Referring to the Waqf Bill, he said that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) adopted the ruling party’s provisions while ignoring amendments proposed by the opposition. “This one-sided approach undermines the parliamentary system and damages democratic institutions,” he said.
On Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Tarigami questioned repeated delays despite assurances from the Prime Minister and Home Minister. “They promised that first delimitation, elections, and then restoration of statehood, yet nothing has happened. The people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to suffer,” he said.
The MLA Kulgam said restoring statehood is essential not just for those who supported the government but for everyone. “It is not about labelling one government a failure and waiting for another. It is about ensuring commitments made to the people are fulfilled,” he said.
Tarigami urged leaders to raise their voices collectively on issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir and its people. “We may come from different backgrounds, but our position is shared. We will continue to fight and make our voices heard for the larger interest of people,” he said.
Ensure people benefit from govt schemes: MLA Kulgam
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Monday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the overall development scenario of the constituency.
The meeting was attended by District Development Council (DDC) members, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Joint Director Planning (JDP), Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP), Executive Engineers, Chief Education Officer (CEO), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), and other senior officers.
During the meeting, MLA conducted an in-depth review of various departments including Health, Rural Development Department (RDD), Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Jal Shakti, and others.
The concerned Head of Departments briefed the meeting regarding progress, achievements, and ongoing initiatives in the constituency concerning their development.
While reviewing the functioning of District Hospital Kulgam, MLA stressed the need for improving healthcare services and ensuring better medical facilities for residents. The progress of key government schemes, including MGNREGA, PMAY-G, RDD schemes, PMAY-U, and others, was also reviewed.
The MLA emphasised the proper implementation of MGNREGA to enhance employment generation and directed officials to prioritise community interests in project execution.
On the occasion, Additional Commissioner Development (ACD) provided a detailed status report on the identification and verification of beneficiaries under the PMAY-G scheme.
While reviewing the power supply scenario, Tarigami instructed concerned departments to ensure a scheduled and uninterrupted power supply. Meanwhile, officials also briefed the meeting on the need for power infrastructure augmentation, including the enhancement of the grid station to meet increasing regional demands.
The MLA further stressed for proper implementation of all beneficiary-oriented schemes to ensure people benefit through government initiatives.
