Srinagar: Vikar Rasool Wani, President of the Congress chapter in Jammu and Kashmir, has accused the BJP-led central government of undermining democratic principles by enhancing the powers of the Lieutenant Governor, which he argues diminishes the authority of the elected government in the region.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Wani expressed his concerns during a press conference in Srinagar, condemning the central government’s recent move as a deliberate strategy to avoid reinstating statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that this action reflects the BJP’s disinterest in allowing the region’s political autonomy and self-governance.
Wani called for the restoration of statehood ahead of the forthcoming assembly elections, stating that without this change, any future elected government would lack effective power. He also speculated that the BJP’s decision to concentrate authority in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor was motivated by fears of electoral defeat, aimed at maintaining control over the region’s administration.
Highlighting the implications for local governance, Wani stressed that an elected government must possess the necessary powers to swiftly address the needs and grievances of its citizens, without being hindered by the need for constant approvals from the Lieutenant Governor.