Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 7 :A significant meeting of civil society representatives of Jammu city was held today to deliberate upon the persistent political, economic, and developmental challenges confronting the Jammu Province. The meeting witnessed the participation of over 70 eminent citizens, including intellectuals, scholars, members of the business community, social activists, and other prominent personalities drawn from diverse walks of life.
The deliberations focused on issues that participants described as systemic and enduring in nature. Foremost among these were allegations of sustained discrimination against the Jammu Province, an overtly anti-Jammu orientation of Kashmir-based political leadership, and the chronic neglect of Jammu’s developmental aspirations since 1947. Speakers highlighted disparities in political representation, resource allocation, administrative focus, and infrastructural development, arguing that these inequities have cumulatively constrained Jammu’s economic growth and social progress.
Several participants underscored that despite Jammu’s strategic importance, demographic diversity, and substantial contribution to the region’s economy and security, the province has remained marginalized in policy-making and governance. Concerns were also raised regarding uneven development indicators, inadequate industrial growth, limited employment opportunities for youth, and perceived neglect of border and hilly areas within the province.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a resolution was unanimously adopted demanding the creation of a separate state for Jammu. The resolution asserted that the demand for separate statehood is neither reactionary nor driven by parochial considerations, but is rooted in the imperative of ensuring equitable governance, balanced development, and political dignity for the people of Jammu.
The participants collectively reiterated that a separate Jammu is not a matter of luxury or political convenience, but a survival need. They emphasized that statehood would enable focused governance, transparent administration, and region-specific development planning, thereby addressing the long-standing grievances of the people.
The civil society representatives resolved to continue democratic, peaceful, and constitutional engagement to build wider awareness on the issue and to mobilize public opinion across the province. It was also agreed that similar consultations would be held in other districts of Jammu to consolidate consensus and articulate a coherent roadmap for the future.
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