Congress leader Digvijaya Singh criticized the BJP's handling of Jammu and Kashmir, lamenting the absence of local representation for four years. He accused the government of disregarding local sentiments, functioning autocratically, and employing non-local officials.
While crediting Pandit Nehru and Sheikh Abdullah for the region's integration, Singh highlighted the administration's dismissal of residents' voices. Supporting reservation for displaced individuals, Singh raised concerns about potential reductions in existing local reservations and highlighted the lack of job opportunities for locals.
He questioned the house arrest of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, countered by Home Minister Amit Shah's denial. During the debate on Jammu and Kashmir Bills, Singh's remarks caused an uproar, leading to the House directing the expungement of his comments.
Other Congress members emphasized Nehru's decision for the region's inclusion and criticized the delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood despite assurances from Amit Shah four years ago. Ultimately, both Bills received Parliament's approval.
Key Points:
1. Digvijaya Singh criticized the BJP government for mishandling Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the region has lacked representation for four years.
2. He accused the government of disregarding the will of locals, operating autocratically, and neglecting their sentiments by appointing external officials.
3. Singh credited Pandit Nehru and Sheikh Abdullah for the present ownership of Jammu and Kashmir by India, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue.
4. He pointed out the sudden revocation and now proposed restoration of J&K's statehood, emphasizing the need to grasp the local situation.
5. Singh supported reservation for displaced people but raised concerns about its potential impact on existing local reservation without clarity.
6. Allegations were made regarding the lack of employment opportunities for locals in J&K, questioning the house arrest of former CM Mehbooba Mufti.
7. Amit Shah denied the house arrest allegation, assuring Mufti's freedom to move and offered security.
8. Singh's remarks led to an uproar, resulting in expunged comments due to a personal observation deemed prejudicial.
9. Congress MPs echoed Nehru's role in incorporating Jammu and Kashmir into India while criticizing the delay in restoring its statehood despite assurances.
10. Despite the debate and uproar, both Jammu and Kashmir Bills were eventually passed by the Parliament.
(With Agency Inputs)
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