Srinagar, Oct 31 (KNO): “We have never considered J&K as a Union Territory, so why should we participate in celebrating something that was taken from us unconstitutionally?” says Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) Chief Tariq Hameed Karra on Thursday as they paid floral tributes to the late leader, whom Karra referred to as the “Iron Lady” of India—former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.*
Today, on the 40th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the Jammu & Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) held a commemoration at Congress Bhawan in Srinagar.
Speaking on the sidelines of the function, as per details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO)—Karra called the celebration of UT foundation day a “black day” for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “We have never considered J&K as a Union Territory, so why should we participate in celebrating something that was taken from us unconstitutionally?” he said.
He said celebrating UT Foundation Day was an unreasonable expectation, stating, “It is like stripping us of our rights.”
Notably, the function, led by JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra along with other senior leaders, featured floral tributes to the late leader, whom Karra referred to as the “Iron Lady” of India.
Meanwhile, in response to a query about the security review meeting, Karra said security reviews need to be holistic and inclusive, with representation from all stakeholders.
Regarding statehood, Karra emphasized the Congress party’s firm stance on restoring complete statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. “We are committed to fighting for full statehood, whether inside the Assembly, outside, or on the streets,” he said, adding that the party urges the Prime Minister and Home Minister to fulfill their previous promise of restoring statehood to the region—(KNO)