Early Times Report JAMMU, Aug 10: Senior National Conference leader and Provincial President Jammu, Adv. Rattan Lal Gupta, today said that restoration of full Statehood is the key to ensuring inclusive, balanced and sustainable development of Jammu & Kashmir. He urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to introduce the Bill for restoration of Statehood in Parliament without any further delay and fulfil the commitment repeatedly made by the Government of India. Gupta said that the people of Jammu & Kashmir have given a clear democratic mandate and deserve to have a government with full constitutional powers and accountability. "The prolonged delay in restoring Statehood is not only affecting the pace of development but also undermining the democratic aspirations of the people of J&K," he said. He appealed to the Union Government to rise above political considerations and honour its commitment to the people. Restoration of Statehood is not a concession; it is a democratic and constitutional necessity for effective governance and inclusive development. "Home Minister Amit Shah should immediately introduce the Statehood Restoration Bill in Parliament and fulfil the assurance given to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. This will strengthen democracy, restore public confidence and reaffirm the Centre's commitment to the federal spirit of the Constitution," Gupta said. He further stated that Jammu & Kashmir is a strategically important border region and requires an empowered, accountable and responsive elected government to address its developmental, economic and employment challenges effectively. Gupta said that the people of J&K have waited long enough and that there can be no further justification for delaying restoration of Statehood. The Centre must respect the mandate of the people, honour its promise and take immediate steps to restore the full State status of Jammu & Kashmir. "Statehood is the key to inclusive development, democratic empowerment and a better future for the people of Jammu & Kashmir," Gupta asserted. |