In a passionate address at a public rally in Jammu, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi declared that the I.N.D.I.A alliance will mobilize its full strength to demand the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir after the ongoing assembly elections. Targeting the BJP-led Central government, Gandhi highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir was uniquely the first state to be converted into a Union Territory (UT) in the annals of independent India.

Gandhi articulated, "The division of J-K into two UTs was a grave injustice to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It should have never happened." He underscored the need for restoring statehood, stating, "I guarantee you that if the BJP does not restore statehood after the elections, we—the I.N.D.I.A alliance—will use our full force in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and even take to the streets for the restoration of statehood to J-K."

Historical Context

In his speech, Gandhi referenced the historical context of state formations and divisions in India, noting, "In the history of India, after 1947, several UTs were turned into states. States were divided - Telangana was formed out of Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand was formed out of Bihar, and Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh. But for the first time after independence, a state was turned into a UT. This was done to Jammu & Kashmir. This is an injustice to you. Your democratic rights have been snatched away from you."

He further pointed out that the governance of Jammu and Kashmir is currently managed by individuals from other states rather than its own people, a sentiment he deemed unacceptable.

Recent Engagements

This rally marked Gandhi's third visit to Jammu and Kashmir within the last three weeks. He had previously visited the Banihal and Dooru constituencies on September 4, ahead of the first phase of assembly elections held on September 18. His second visit took place just two days before the second phase of polls on September 25, when he interacted with voters in the Surankote and Central-Shalteng regions.

As the elections unfold, Gandhi's commitment to advocating for the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir resonates with local sentiments, highlighting a crucial issue in the political landscape of the region. His emphatic stand serves to galvanize support for the Congress party and its allies as they navigate the electoral landscape.

For more updates on political developments and election news, stay connected with Best IPO to Apply Now - IPO List 2024, Latest IPO, Upcoming IPO, Recent IPO News, Live IPO GMP Today - Finance Saathi and Top News Headlines - Share Market News, Latest IPO News, Business News, Economy News - Finance Saathi for detailed insights.

You can also join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular stock market tips, and for continuous updates on share market and IPO developments, connect with Finance Saathi Telegram Channel.

Begin your stock market journey and apply for IPOs by opening a free Demat account with Choice Broking FinX.