Srinagar: A key civil society group in Srinagar has raised significant concerns over the prolonged delay in restoring statehood to Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), which includes retired officials, technocrats, and professionals, convened in Srinagar to address the issue. According to Kashmir Media Service, the group warned that the ongoing political uncertainty is eroding public trust and weakening democratic institutions in the region.

“The diarchy in governance, as it exists on the ground, is fraught with dangerous consequences,” the group stated in a post-meeting release. This refers to the dual structure of central and local authority operating without elected representation.

The GCC also expressed alarm about the record-high levels of educated unemployment and the ineffectiveness of grievance redressal systems. They cautioned that public expectations for an elected government, following a gap of over six years, risk turning into deep disappointment.

The group cited a Supreme Court verdict from December 11, 2023, which directed the early restoration of statehood to the territory. They urged the Modi regime to fulfill its commitment without further delay, recalling the Attorney General of India’s assurance to the court for timely implementation.

The GCC, a non-political platform of retired civil servants, judges, academics, lawyers, doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs, has consistently addressed governance, civil liberties, and constitutional issues impacting the disputed region.