Senior Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and Kulgam MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has voiced strong skepticism regarding the central government’s assertions of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. He has called for the immediate restoration of the region’s political and constitutional rights, arguing that undermining the populace would be detrimental to both national interests and the pursuit of enduring peace.
Tarigami’s remarks, made on the sidelines of a function in Jammu organized to commemorate the upcoming second death anniversary of CPM leader Sitaram Yechury, directly challenged the official narrative. He specifically questioned the rationale behind repeated threats being issued to members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, even as the government insists on a significant improvement in the security situation. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that this inconsistency is a focal point of concern for regional political leaders.
The veteran politician also directed criticism towards the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) recent protests and the manner in which Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized. “The BJP is also protesting, as is the National Conference on the issue of statehood. But I fail to understand what exactly the BJP is protesting about,” Tarigami stated. He further elaborated, “They have the Government of India with them, and even the administration here is effectively under their control. Whom are they going to hold responsible for issues relating to governance and public order?” This rhetorical question highlights a perceived lack of accountability from the ruling party.
Tarigami asserted that the populace cannot be indefinitely misled and observed a growing political awareness across both the Jammu and Kashmir regions. He alleged that the legislative assembly has been deliberately weakened and stripped of its authority by the central government. “We hope the legislature will be restored to its rightful position. It has been rendered powerless, and the Government of India is responsible for that,” he declared, emphasizing the need for a robust legislative framework.
The CPM leader stressed that the restoration of rights historically guaranteed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir by the Constitution and the Constituent Assembly is paramount for the region’s future and security. “The rights granted to the people of Jammu and Kashmir by the Constitution and the Constituent Assembly should be restored. That is where our security lies and where our future lies. This is a question concerning both Jammu and Kashmir. Weakening the people of the region does not serve the interests of the country and will not help establish lasting peace,” Tarigami articulated. His statement underscores a belief that empowerment of the local population is intrinsically linked to regional stability.
Furthermore, Tarigami raised pertinent questions regarding the historical protections afforded to land and employment in Jammu and Kashmir during the reign of Maharaja Hari Singh. He sought to understand who was responsible for altering these safeguards and the reasons behind such decisions. This inquiry points to a demand for transparency and a re-examination of policies that have impacted the economic and social fabric of the region.
Addressing the alarming issue of fresh threats against Kashmiri Pandits, Tarigami demanded accountability from the government. “If peace has truly returned, as the government claims in Parliament and elsewhere, then why is a community that has already suffered immensely facing threats once again?” he questioned. He urged the authorities to identify those responsible for issuing these threats and to clearly outline the measures being implemented to ensure the safety and security of the community. The CPM leader’s stance reflects a deep concern for the well-being of all communities residing in Jammu and Kashmir and a call for tangible action rather than mere assurances.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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