Kishtwar, July 27: Former Minister and Vice President of J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, (JKPCC), Ghulam Mohammed Saroori has demanded restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir keeping in view the sentiments of both the regions.
“The carving of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territory has badly affected the economy, education and employment as the August 5, 2019 decision had adverse effects,” said Saroori, extending his support to MP Ghulam Nabi Azad while meeting with various deputations in Sarthal area of Kishtwar district.
Saroori said that people agree with the statement of Azad Sahab and feel that the time has come when the Union Government must realise that they should not continue with the Union Territory status which is seen as humiliation and demotion by the people of the erstwhile princely state having a history of 200 years. J&K has financially nose-dived with the decision of the Government and the traders, businessmen, hoteliers, tourism sector, transporters and industrial sector have suffered unaccounted losses, said Saroori.
He said that the Government should take steps to win the hearts of the people and restore the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir without further delay. Both the Jammu and Kashmir regions have expressed their resentment over the decision which needs urgent review from the Government and restore the honour of the people, he demanded.
Saroori appealed to the Government to announce a comprehensive package for the business community, tourism sector, industrial sector, transporters and others suffering due to the decision of the Government. “The Covid situation has taken its toll and sunk the economy to a level of no return if the Government does not come to the rescue of the businessmen and others,” he cautioned.
The Former Minister said that the package must be announced and delivered to those affected in a manner to safeguard the interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that many people dependent upon the Amarnath Yatra were waiting for the commencing of the pilgrimage. However, it had to be cancelled due to covid situation. The poor pony wala and carriers should also be considered for the financial package so that they do not face starvation.
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