Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Sunday held a party workers convention in the Srinagar district. The event marked a significant milestone following the party’s grand victory in the recent elections.
The gathering combined celebratory fervour with strategic discussions, underscoring the party’s resolve to deliver on its commitments and address public grievances.
JKPCC Chief and MLA from Central Shalteng constituency, Tariq Hameed Karra, who played a key role in the party’s electoral success in Kashmir province, expressed profound gratitude to the voters and supporters.
Speaking at the event, he remarked, “My first priority is to restore the respect, dignity, and honor of my people while safeguarding their constitutional rights and guarantees. The welfare and development of my constituency remain at the forefront of my agenda. I extend heartfelt thanks to all voters and supporters who stood by me through every challenge.”
Karra expressed grave concern over the regular calls being made to members of the business community for different types of verifications by CID and CIK, saying, “The harassment of Kashmiri businessmen through unnecessary and repeated verifications is unacceptable. This method of intimidation must stop immediately. Our business community is the backbone of our economy, and their rights need to be safeguarded, not undermined.
Addressing questions from reporters regarding the dual power structure involving the Lieutenant Governor and the elected government led by Omar Abdullah, Karra strongly criticized the arrangement, “I have consistently opposed this dual power control system. The Central Government is deliberately creating obstacles to undermine the elected government led by NC-Congress. Some officials openly admit they operate under the LG’s directives, which is a blatant violation of democratic principles. The BJP’s agenda is clear: they are punishing the people of Jammu and Kashmir for rejecting their policies at the ballot box.”
Karra further emphasized the need for full statehood restoration, stating, “The restoration of statehood is vital for preserving our dignity, cultural traditions like the Darbar Move, control over land, jobs, and natural resources. Without full statehood, the welfare of our people remains in jeopardy. The Congress Party stands firmly behind the Omar Abdullah-led government, and I will continue to support it unwaveringly.”
On bureaucratic inefficiencies and policies, Karra remarked, “The bureaucracy is equally confused by the dual power structure, creating unnecessary hurdles for the elected government. Unfortunately, the first casualty of this inefficiency is the common man, who has already endured years of hardship.”
When asked about environmental concerns, Karra expressed alarm, “Unchecked development in the name of progress is compromising our ecology and natural resources.
Environmental experts have raised legitimate concerns. Sustainable development must be prioritized to ensure a balance between progress and preservation.”
Former MLA Sopore, Haji Abdul Rashid, praised the unwavering support of the people, saying, “This victory is a testament to the trust people have placed in the vision and leadership of JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra. We are committed to serving the people with integrity.”
