Imran Naikoo

Srinagar, 28 January: During his address at the Gulistan News Badalta Jammu and Kashmir Conclave today, CPIM senior leader and MLA Kulgam, Mohd Yousuf Tarigami sharply criticized the actions of Delhi, especially following the events of August 5, 2019, when Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was revoked and the region was bifurcated into two Union Territories.

Tarigami reflected on the repeated use of the term “Delhi” and questioned which Delhi was being referred to, whether it was the Delhi that stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomy or the one that imposed restrictions and curfews.

He remarked, “When we talk about Delhi, what do we mean? The Delhi that, on 5th August 2019, altered the very identity of Jammu and Kashmir?

The Delhi that changed a historic state into two Union Territories without any debate, discussion or even a proper parliamentary procedure?”

He pointed out that there was no significant discussion within the media, civil society or trade unions, which led to a major political shift without any public consultation.

“I challenge those who advocate for this Delhi, have you ever seen a historical example in parliamentary or social history where a state’s status was reduced to that of a Union Territory without any discussion or debate?” Tarigami asked, emphasizing the deep dissatisfaction felt in Jammu and Kashmir.

He also highlighted that despite the ongoing demand for statehood by various Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir had already been subjected to this unprecedented change, which, according to him, was a mockery of the democratic process and a violation of the of the region’s political rights.
(Gulistan News TV)