Statehood Will Be Restored: Rahul Gandhi In Srinagar

While addressing a press conference in Srinagar on Thursday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi said that the priority of Congress and INDIA alliance is restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and democratic rights of people. The press meet was held following a meeting with party leaders and workers.

Rahul Gandhi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge is on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir to discuss assembly poll preparations. Both leaders interacted with Congress leaders and workers regarding the ground-level preparations for the forthcoming polls.

Also Read | Haryana Recruitment Process MCC Violation? Election Commission Said This

“It is our priority in the Congress party and also in the INDIA alliance to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible. We had expected that this would be done prior to the elections, but elections have been declared. It is a step forward, and we are hoping that statehood will be restored as soon as possible and the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir (democratic rights) will be restored to them,” Rahul Gandhi said.

Congress leader mentioned that it was for the first time since independence a state has become a union territory. “So, we are very clear in our national manifesto as well that it is a priority for us that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh get their democratic rights back,” he added.

Rahul Gandhi, then mentioned about the deep relationship with people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read | Jammu And Kashmir To Vote In 3 Phases Starting Sep 18; Counting On Oct 4

Continuing further, Congress leader said: “My message to the people of Jammu and Kashmir is, however we can help you, the Congress Party is always there. We understand that you’re going through a very difficult period, a tough period, and we want to remove violence.”

The assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will held on three phases; September 18, 25 and October 1. The counting of votes will take place on October 4.