 Early Times Report
Jammu, Apr 6: In a surprising turn of events, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has referenced the late Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Dogra ruler of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, in its critique of the ruling BJP's decision to revoke Article 370 and Article 35-A. Having previously condemned Maharaja Hari Singh as a "despot" and "oppressor" for decades, the CPI(M) is now citing the same monarch to challenge the abrogation of Article 370.
During its 24th Congress in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, the CPI(M) passed a resolution demanding the restoration of full statehood and democracy in Jammu and Kashmir. The resolution states, "The unconstitutional and disastrous decisions of August 5, 2019 – nullifying Articles 370 and 35A – coupled with a series of arbitrary legislations and degrading actions, have fragmented and diminished the historic state of Jammu and Kashmir. The removal of statehood and division of the state into two Union Territories has created a profound political vacuum and heightened feelings of uncertainty and alienation among its people."
The party further noted, "Civil liberties, human rights, and democratic freedoms are steadil Having previously termed Maharaja Hari Singh as a “despot” and “oppressor” for decades, the CPI(M) is now citing the same monarch to challenge the abrogation of Article 370.
Since Maharaja Hari Singh’s rule, J&K enjoyed special protections for land and jobs, barring non-residents from purchasing land or securing employment.
These safeguards for land and jobs for permanent residents of J&K were arbitrarily dismantled, intensifying insecurity among the population.
During its 24th Congress in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, the CPI(M) passed a resolution demanding the restoration of full statehood and democracy in J&K.
Highlighting historical privileges, the CPI(M) stated, "Since Maharaja Hari Singh’s rule, Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed special protections for land and jobs, barring non-residents from purchasing land or securing employment. Similar provisions exist in certain other states as well." The party argued, "However, these safeguards for land and jobs for permanent residents of J&K were arbitrarily dismantled, intensifying insecurity among the population."
The CPI(M) also pointed to the worsening economy in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that promises of development, investment, and job opportunities have rung hollow. "Daily-wage workers face delayed payments, while critical sectors like agriculture, horticulture, handicrafts, and transport are in severe distress," the resolution observed. It further noted, “Apple growers, in particular, are facing escalating difficulties, compounded by the absence of legal protections such as the Minimum Support Price (MSP).” |
