Jammu: The Indian National Congress on Sunday launched a five-day padyatra in Jammu district under its “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” campaign, intensifying its demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir while raising issues related to inflation, unemployment and youth welfare.
The march was flagged off by Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee President Tariq Hameed Karra in the presence of senior party leaders, including Working President Raman Bhalla, District Congress Committee Jammu Urban President Yogesh Sawhney and other party functionaries and workers.
Addressing the gathering, Karra said the “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq” campaign is aimed at restoring the democratic and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He alleged that despite repeated assurances, the people of J&K continue to await restoration of full statehood and democratic empowerment.
He said the Congress would continue its struggle for statehood through democratic means and accused the BJP-led Centre of failing to address issues such as inflation, unemployment and rising fuel prices.
Referring to concerns over examination irregularities, Karra said the future of students and job aspirants should not be compromised and called for accountability in the conduct of national-level examinations.
The Congress leader also expressed concern over the reported deaths of Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman and urged the Government of India to take appropriate diplomatic measures to safeguard Indian citizens working abroad.
Karra said the party stands with youth, students, farmers, traders and other sections of society and reiterated that restoration of statehood remains essential for democratic governance and the protection of people’s rights and aspirations.
Speaking on the occasion, Raman Bhalla said the padyatra seeks to highlight public concerns and bring issues affecting common people to the forefront. He alleged that inflation and unemployment have placed a significant burden on citizens and called for measures to address these challenges.
Bhalla also reiterated the party’s demand for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and said the Congress would continue to raise the issue at all democratic forums.
The padyatra witnessed participation from party workers and local residents and will continue across different areas of Jammu district over the next five days as part of the party’s outreach campaign.
