Jammu: The Communist Party of India (CPI) led a protest in Jammu, advocating for the restoration of statehood to the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The demonstration highlighted demands for an end to the prevailing bureaucratic rule.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, numerous CPI-IIOJK members assembled outside the Press Club Jammu, voicing their support for statehood restoration. The protestors criticized the ongoing governance by New Delhi, which they claim undermines democratic processes.

CPI-IIOJK secretary G M Mizrab addressed the gathering, condemning the dual power structure enforced by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government. He insisted that the people of IIOJK had exercised their right to vote for a democratic government, yet their elected representatives are unable to function effectively.

Mizrab also noted the adverse impacts experienced by the region’s residents since 2019, attributing them to prolonged bureaucratic governance. Leaders Rakesh Sharma and Kurheed Ahmad Bhat also spoke at the event, emphasizing statehood as an essential right and an urgent need for the IIOJK populace. They called on the Indian government to expedite the restoration process.