Trip to Delhi, photo-ops, symbolic gestures won't solve issue of Kmr: Para targets CM

SRINAGAR: PDP MLA Waheed Para has criticized the Jammu and Kashmir government for reducing governance and political discourse to what he termed as “symbolic and superficial gestures.” Addressing the media in Srinagar, Para expressed dissatisfaction with the government's approach and leaders like Omar Abdullah, who, he alleged, have failed to address the real challenges facing the region. He emphasized that genuine engagement, not photo-ops or frequent trips to Delhi, is required to resolve the pressing issues in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Governance cannot just revolve around administrative reviews, distributing shawls, or making appearances. The issues here are deep-rooted, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir need real action—not token gestures,” Para said. He called for a shift in focus toward meaningful discussions and fulfilling promises made in manifestos.
Highlighting what he described as glaring contradictions, Para pointed out that while Article 370 is often discussed on streets, in neighborhoods, and at public events, it remains conspicuously absent in the assembly, where it matters most. “They speak about Article 370 in every corner of the state, but when it comes to raising it in the assembly, there is complete silence. Even during the recent five-day session, the agenda ignored critical issues like 370, political representation, and challenges faced by youth,” Para remarked.
He criticized the government for its failure to include substantial topics in the assembly’s agenda. “They claimed to have introduced out-of-protocol resolutions, but those weren’t even mentioned in the official business schedule. Instead, entirely unrelated issues took center stage, further sidelining the concerns of the people,” he added.
Para reiterated his demand for the government to address unemployment and the challenges faced by the region’s youth. "The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have been left in limbo. Cases against them remain unresolved, and no concrete steps have been taken to provide opportunities or create jobs. This is a betrayal of the mandate they received," he said.
He further emphasized the need for political rehabilitation, particularly for those who have been imprisoned outside the region. “It’s time for the government to bring Kashmiri prisoners back home and start building trust among the people. These are not extraordinary demands; they are basic responsibilities of any administration,” he stressed.
On Articles 370 and 35A, Para said these are not just political issues but deeply emotional ones that resonate with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “The government and leaders like Omar Abdullah must take a firm stand. The demographic and emotional concerns tied to these articles cannot be brushed under the carpet. These issues are not just symbolic; they represent the aspirations of the people here,” he noted.
Para also reminded the government of the promises it made during the elections, including one lakh jobs, free ration, and restoring political representation. "The government must remember that its massive mandate came with responsibilities. People voted for change and action, not inaction and contradictions," he said.
In a sharp rebuke, Para concluded by saying that governance in Jammu and Kashmir must be rooted in reality and address the core issues of the region. “Frequent trips to Delhi and symbolic gestures will not solve the problems here. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are watching, and they demand sincerity and action,” he stated.
With his pointed critique, Waheed Para has brought attention to the government's unmet promises and the challenges that continue to plague Jammu and Kashmir. His call for action-oriented politics underscores the need for a focused and accountable approach to governance in the region.