Early Times Report JAMMU, Jan 9: Senior Congress leader and DDC Suchetgarh member, Taranjit Singh Tony launched a scathing attack on the BJP for delaying the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a blatant disrespect of the people's mandate. He emphasized that the dual power system currently in place is a grave threat to the principles of elected democracy and an insult to the democratic framework. In a press statement issued here today, Tony pointed out that in any democratic system, a government formed by the people's will is entrusted with full-fledged powers to govern effectively. However, in J&K, the dual power structure has curtailed the authority of elected representatives, making governance ineffective. He stated, "When a Chief Minister or a Deputy Chief Minister, elected by the people, does not have full powers to govern, it undermines the entire democratic process. The current setup in Jammu and Kashmir restricts the government's ability to hold non-performing officials accountable, thus hampering the smooth functioning of the system." Criticizing the BJP-led central government, Tony highlighted the plight of daily wagers, contractual workers, and unemployed youth in the region. "Under this dual power system, the present administration has failed to deliver on the regularization of jobs for daily wagers or create new employment opportunities. How can a government function when its hands are tied?" he questioned. The senior Congress leader appealed to the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to immediately end this dual power system by restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that the lack of statehood has led to administrative inefficiencies, growing discontent among the populace, and an erosion of trust in the system. "The BJP has betrayed the aspirations of the people of J&K by delaying statehood. This disrespect to the mandate of the people is unacceptable. Only a fully empowered, democratically elected government can address the grievances of the people and steer J&K towards progress," Tony asserted. Tony asked the Central Government to honor its promises, restore the democratic rights of the people, and pave the way for holistic development in the region. |