Jammu & Kashmir

GoI increased powers of Lieutenant Governor to rule JK by proxy, says Congress

A wide view of Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk, Srinagar. [FPK Photo/ Umar Farooq]

Srinagar: Bharat Singh Solanki, Congress in-charge for Jammu and Kashmir, accused the BJP-led NDA government of increasing the powers of the lieutenant governor to rule the Union Territory by “proxy” instead of holding assembly elections, PTI reported.

The government of India recently empowered the lieutenant governor with significant authority over matters such as policing, all-India services officers, and prosecution sanctions.

The opposition criticised this move, viewing it as disempowering for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Solanki stated, “The BJP does not want to hold elections in Jammu and Kashmir; they want to rule by proxy. That is why it has given more powers to the LG.”

He noted that the Supreme Court has directed the restoration of statehood and assembly elections by September 30, 2024.

During a political affairs committee meeting in the region, Solanki also criticized BJP leaders for failing to fulfill promises of prosperity and reduced militancy. He mentioned that militancy has increased in both the Jammu and Kashmir regions.

Solanki announced that Rahul Gandhi has accepted an invitation to visit Jammu and Kashmir and will continue his mission from the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Congress plans to initiate a mass contact programme to develop a “people’s manifesto” for the upcoming assembly elections.

When asked about continuing the alliance with the National Conference, Solanki said the decision would be based on feedback from the mass contact programme.

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