‘Current Setup Undermines Democracy’ Youth Congress Claims Amid Protests in Srinagar

Kashmir: – In a fervent demonstration, the Youth Congress in Srinagar called for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir before any elections are held. The protestors emphasized that without statehood, the democratic process remains compromised as true power continues to reside with the Lieutenant Governor (LG).

Led by Shri Maan Singh, National Secretary of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) in charge of J&K, and Shri Aakash Bharat, State President of the J&K Pradesh Youth Congress (JKPYC), the demonstrators expressed strong disapproval of the BJP-led LG administration’s handling of the region. They highlighted the increase in terrorist attacks in areas that were previously considered peaceful, resulting in tragic losses of both civilians and defense personnel.

The protestors marched with banners and slogans, asserting that statehood must be reinstated to ensure a genuine democratic framework where elected officials hold actual power. They argued that conducting elections under the current Union Territory status would be futile, as it would merely create a façade of democracy without real self-governance.

Criticizing the BJP government’s promises made during the abrogation of Article 370, the Youth Congress members pointed out the disparity between the claims and the ground reality. They alleged that instead of bringing peace and development, the region has seen increased terrorism and disempowerment of the local population.

The protestors firmly demanded that statehood be restored to Jammu and Kashmir before any elections take place, insisting that this step is crucial for restoring true democratic governance and addressing the aspirations of the people.