Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Congress has extended full support to the people of Ladakh demanding a high-level judicial probe into the Leh violence, where four persons were killed during protests for Sixth Schedule status and statehood on September 24.
J-K Congress working president Raman Bhalla accused the Centre and the Ladakh UT administration of gross mishandling in the strategically vital region.
“We fully support the demand of Ladakhis for a judicial probe into the firing incident in Leh,” Bhalla said, adding that both the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance had raised the same demand.
Blaming the BJP-led Centre for “betraying” Ladakh and J-K after making “tall promises” of statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards, Bhalla said, “The peaceful region of Ladakh has been pushed into turmoil by the BJP’s total mishandling. The Centre should meet the genuine demands of both UTs without further delay.”
He strongly condemned Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta’s remarks blaming Nepalese and residents of Doda for the violence, calling the statement “irresponsible” and “in bad taste.”
“Nepalese have centuries-old friendly ties with India. Gorkhas are known for their loyalty and bravery, having sacrificed their lives for the nation. Criminal acts must be attributed to individuals, not entire communities,” Bhalla said, urging the LG to exercise restraint in public statements given India’s close relations with Nepal.
On Jammu and Kashmir, Bhalla criticised the Centre for failing to announce a relief package for flood-hit areas and said the “dual control system” was obstructing timely rehabilitation and restoration.
“The 28 BJP MPs and MLAs from J-K should press their government to deliver on its promise of restoring statehood. The dual system is a hurdle in relief and restoration,” he added.
