Dual control, statehood delay affecting governance in J&K, says NC’s Sadhotra

Jammu, Jan 29: National Conference (NC) additional general secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Wednesday lamented over the dual control over the administration in Jammu and Kashmir and the delay in the restoration of statehood, saying these factors have severely impacted governance, leaving the people in distress.
Addressing a public meeting at Reasi, Sadhotra recalled that the Government of India has already made a commitment before the Supreme Court and Parliament of the Country that Jammu and Kashmir will be granted Statehood after the conduct of Elections. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Central government continues to delay this constitutional right, which is further deepening the hardships faced by the people, he said.
“Such a situation is detrimental to the larger interests of the sensitive Jammu and Kashmir that needs focused attention on development, coordinated delivery system, fast-tracking recruitment process, enhancing employability and assuaging the urges and aspirations of all segments of the society,” the NC leader said, adding that this can be achieved with a single-minded approach.
The former minister added, “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have hugely suffered during one long decade due to the absence of a representative government as lack of accountability to the public used to be a norm as a result of which the people’s grievances kept piling up.”
Sadhotra reiterated the long-standing demand for the restoration of full statehood, saying that Jammu and Kashmir cannot be kept in limbo any longer. “Denying the people their constitutional rights is unacceptable. The prolonged wait for statehood is increasing political uncertainty and making governance ineffective,” he said.
The NC leader urged the government officers and bureaucrats to proactively engage with the people, listen to their grievances and ensure their timely resolution.
Addressing the gathering, former minister Abdul Gani Malik said the National Conference remains steadfast in its demand for the immediate restoration of statehood and urges the central government to honour its commitment to the people of J&K.