Says People Losing Faith in Democracy

Ishfaq gulzar cni

Srinagar, CNI: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, President Tariq Hameed Karra has launched a scathing attack on the existing governance model in the Union Territory, blaming the “dual control system” for stalling development and deepening public discontent.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Karra criticized the current structure where elected representatives function under the overarching authority of the Lieutenant Governor. He termed the arrangement unsustainable and undemocratic. “People are beginning to wonder if they voted to find solutions or to face fresh troubles. Their trust in the democratic process is hanging by a thread,” Karra said.

He cautioned that the growing public cynicism could further destabilize the political and administrative framework in Jammu and Kashmir. “This system is not just ineffective; it is damaging the very spirit of democracy. Unless full statehood is restored and elected representatives are empowered, the situation will only worsen,” he warned.

Karra pointed to mounting frustration among citizens, noting that government functioning has slowed to a crawl. “Offices are barely operating. There’s a serious cash crunch at the grassroots. Even though the budget has been cleared, not a single rupee has been released, not even constituency development funds meant for MLAs,” he said.

Touching on the recent tragic attack that shook the tourism sector, Karra urged the administration to launch urgent confidence-building initiatives to reassure both residents and visitors. “People need a sense of stability, and the economy needs a lifeline. The government must act fast,” he said.

He also criticized the central government’s foreign policy, claiming that despite active diplomatic engagement, no international ally came forward to support India during its recent crisis. “This exposes the failure of image-based diplomacy. Our foreign outreach looks good on paper, but when it mattered most, it fell flat,” Karra remarked.

The Congress leader reiterated his demand for the restoration of full statehood and democratic governance, calling it the only way to bring back normalcy and revive development in Jammu and Kashmir. (CNI)