SRINAGAR: Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad demanded restoration of statehood followed by assembly elections in J&K during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Thursday evening.
Azad told news agency KNS that he called on Prime Minister Modi to discuss the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and to express concern over increasing coronavirus cases, particularly in Kashmir valley.
“I also demanded that statehood should be immediately restored and it should be followed by assembly elections. Various development activities can be carried out only if there is an elected state government,” Azad said.
During his meeting with the PM, Azad also raised the issue of downgrading of security of political leaders. He demanded for them security, vehicles, and accommodation irrespective of party affiliation, he told KNS.
Azad said he told the PM that militancy has increased and it is unfortunate that security of political leaders has been reduced.
“I informed the Prime Minister about the need for political activities in J&K. Political activities pave way for development and people’s participation in development increases, which is not the case during Governor’s administration,” Azad said. Azad also demanded augmentation of capabilities and capacities for effective fight against Covid-19 in J&K.
The meeting was held regarding Kashmir specific issues and lasted for more than an hour, Azad said.
— KNS

KR Desk