SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee President Tariq Hameed Karra has criticised the existing governance model in the Union Territory, blaming the “dual control system” for hindering development and increasing public dissatisfaction.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Karra said elected representatives are functioning under the overarching authority of the Lieutenant Governor, calling the arrangement “unsustainable and undemocratic.”
“People are beginning to question whether they voted for solutions or more problems. Trust in the democratic process is hanging by a thread,” he said.
Karra warned that rising public cynicism could further destabilise the political and administrative setup. “This system is not just ineffective, it undermines democracy. Without full statehood and empowered representatives, the situation will deteriorate further,” he added.
He cited growing frustration among citizens, noting that government functioning has slowed significantly. “Offices are barely operational. There’s a serious cash crunch. Despite the budget being cleared, no funds, including MLA constituency development funds have been released,” he said.
Referring to the recent attack that impacted tourism, Karra urged the administration to take urgent confidence-building steps. “People need stability. The economy needs a lifeline. The government must act quickly,” he said.
Karra also criticised the Centre’s foreign policy, claiming no international support emerged during India’s recent crisis. “This exposes the failure of image-driven diplomacy. It looks good on paper but collapsed when needed,” he remarked.
He reiterated the demand for restoration of full statehood and democratic governance, calling it essential for normalcy and development in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNT)
