Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 23: Senior National Conference (NC) leader Rajesh Gupta today strongly criticised the BJP-led Government at the Centre for continuing to deny full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, terming the move a direct assault on democracy and regional balance.
Addressing the media, Gupta said the prolonged absence of statehood has severely weakened democratic institutions in the Union Territory and resulted in grave regional injustice, with Jammu bearing the brunt of the policy.
He expressed serious concern over what he described as the troubling silence of Jammu’s Dogra community, warning that Duggar culture, the Dogri language and the region’s historical identity are steadily eroding.
Referring to developments after the abrogation of Article 370, the NC leader alleged that outsiders are increasingly acquiring land and securing jobs in Jammu, thereby shrinking opportunities for local youth.
In contrast, he claimed, Kashmir continues to retain its demographic and cultural safeguards.
“This unequal policy has pushed Jammu to the margins,” Gupta said.
Calling the situation a wake-up call, the NC leader stressed that unity is the only way to protect Dogra identity and Duggar heritage.
“Statehood is not merely an administrative demand; it is a shield for our identity, dignity and future. Continued silence will only hasten irreversible loss,” he added.
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