Amid statehood wait, J&K Dy CM cites ‘limitations’ of Govt

Suhail Khan

Srinagar, Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary acknowledged public “difficulties” and urged “understanding” of the government’s “limitations” during his Republic Day address on Monday, even as he reaffirmed faith in the Centre’s promise to restore statehood “on the floor of the House” and “before the country’s highest court.”

In a 32-minute speech at Bakshi Stadium that balanced assertions of development with candid admissions of challenges, Choudhary as per Kashmir Convener framed security, drugs and tourism as key concerns while making a pointed appeal for regional and religious unity against forces “who want to separate the Hindu from the Muslim and the Sikh from the Christian.”

“I know you face a lot of difficulties, and you want our government to solve your issues. You, too, will have to understand our limitations,” said the Deputy CM, before adding, “But I still assure you that our government will soon resolve your issues.”

The remarks come against a backdrop of persistent demands, particularly from Jammu, for separate statehood — a sentiment Choudhary as per Kashmir Convener indirectly addressed by emphasising brotherhood. “No doubt, there are forces that want to break this brotherhood… But we are proud that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have not let them break the brotherhood.”

At a separate event during the day, when asked about statehood, Choudhary told reporters as per Kashmir Convener “As far as statehood is concerned, Prime Minister sahib and Home Minister sahib have promised it on the floor of the House not only to the people of Jammu and Kashmir but to the people of India. They have promised it before the country’s highest court. We hope that… statehood will be returned to Jammu and Kashmir.”

Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary said the responsibility of security forces had increased, especially in tackling the drug menace and “protecting youth from addiction.” He praised security forces for counter-terrorism efforts and accused Pakistan of causing “immense suffering” and attempting to “disrupt peace and harm tourism” — a reference to the Pahalgam attack that hit the valley’s tourism sector.

“Pakistan tried to damage Kashmir and its tourism. Our people and security forces will never allow these attempts to succeed,” he said.

The Deputy CM listed achievements in health, education and skill development, asserting that J&K had “moved way ahead on the path of development.” He said the government aims to make J&K “the skill capital of North India” by 2030 through Mission Youth, digital empowerment and entrepreneurship support.

He also highlighted new industrial estates, a local employment policy, expansion of medical infrastructure, and initiatives for remote education and girls’ schooling.

Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary described the current situation in the UT as “peaceful” and invited domestic and foreign tourists to visit, saying, “The valleys of Kashmir are ready to welcome tourists. Visitors will find a home-like environment here.”

The speech wove historical nods to the Constitution and the freedom struggle with contemporary governance rhetoric, positioning development, peace and youth engagement as the administration’s trinity of priorities — even as the political question of statehood lingered in the backdrop.