Congress President Sonia Gandhi addressing an election rally in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir
Days before the first phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress today announced that it will push for the state's reorganisation if the party is voted to power. Party president Sonia Gandhi, who addressed two election rallies in the state, promised separate regional councils for Jammu province and Kashmir. The poll promise is aimed at winning back support in Jammu region where the party was decimated by the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.
"We will set up two Regional Councils for Kashmir and Jammu; we will also create development councils for Chinab valley and Pir Panjal regions," said Mrs Gandhi at an election rally in Bandipora.
Over the years, all political parties based in Jammu have alleged discrimination against the region and demanded an end to what they call "Kashmir's monopoly". If indeed the Congress's plans are implemented, it will have long-term political and administrative ramifications in the state.
Sources say that according to the party's plans, the regional councils for Jammu and Kashmir provinces will be autonomous with absolute powers in financial and administrative matters. The two developmental councils for Pir Panjal and Chinab Valley will be formed on the pattern of Leh and Kargil Hill development councils.
While promising a new airstrip in the Kashmir valley to boost tourism opportunities, Mrs Gandhi also slammed the Centre for tardy relief process for flood victims.
"BJP government is indifferent to sufferings of flood victims. They didn't respond to the demand made by the state government," said Mrs Gandhi.