SRINAGAR: Congress leader and Rajouri MLA Iftikhar Ahmad has strongly criticised the ‘dual control governance system’ in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that it negatively impacts the people of the Union Territory. He voiced his concerns over the governance challenges arising from this fragmented system.
According to Ahmad, the division of administrative powers among the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister, and the Union Home Ministry has created confusion. “While some responsibilities are handled by the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, critical areas like law and order fall directly under the Home Ministry. This fragmented system has resulted in a lack of clarity in governance in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Ahmad also criticised the central government for delaying the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, despite repeated assurances from top leaders. “If the Prime Minister and the Home Minister have committed to restoring statehood, what is stopping them now?” he questioned. He pointed out that the government claims conditions have improved since the revocation of Article 370 but has yet to act on its promises.
Challenging the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Ahmad asked whether BJP MLAs from Jammu support the return of statehood. “When will the government decide the right time? The people deserve clear and honest answers,” he asserted.
On the security situation, Ahmad linked governance failures to the recent security issues in Jammu and Kashmir. He condemned the targeted killings, including the attack on an ex-army personnel and his family. “These tragic incidents should never have happened. Those in power are responsible and must be held accountable,” he stated.
He also demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the mysterious deaths in Badhal, Kishtwar. “While the situation has shown improvement, a thorough investigation is necessary to deliver justice to the victims and their families,” he emphasised.
Reiterating Congress’s position within the NC-led alliance, Ahmad reaffirmed that his party would not join the government until statehood is reinstated. “We formed a pre-poll alliance with the National Conference, but our involvement in governance depends entirely on the restoration of statehood. While we support the NC-led administration from outside, we will not assume ministerial roles until our conditions are met,” he explained.
Ahmad also stressed the need for local control over land rights, natural resources, and employment. “These rights are protected in many Indian states. Why should Jammu and Kashmir be an exception?” he questioned, adding that the people overwhelmingly support these demands.
The Congress MLA voiced his opposition to the proposed Waqf amendment bill, arguing that it interferes with Muslim personal laws. “BJP policies seem aimed at undermining minority rights,” he remarked.
On the issue of reservations, Ahmad stated that those who have benefited from reservations rightfully deserve that support. He added that as an elected representative, he is committed to ensuring that government schemes effectively reach his constituency. “I have conducted comprehensive reviews of all departments in my constituency to guarantee that government schemes are reaching the people effectively,” he said. (With KINS inputs)
