"Rahul Gandhi Declares 'Representation of J&K People and Their Statehood Is the Most Important Thing' in Address to State Cadre"

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 22 — Following the Election Commission of India's announcement of state assembly election dates for Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir, Congress Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress Rajya Sabha MP Mallikarjun Kharge met with party workers in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday. During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi emphasized the significance of representing the people of Jammu and Kashmir and restoring their statehood.

"You are not merely workers; you are family. Upon learning that elections were approaching, our first decision was to come to Jammu and Kashmir to convey that the representation of the people of this region and their statehood is of utmost importance to us," stated Rahul Gandhi.

He highlighted that, in the history of independent India, while several union territories have been granted statehood, Jammu and Kashmir remains the only instance where statehood was revoked to create a union territory. "We want to emphasize that the representation of Jammu and Kashmir’s people is crucial, both for us and for the nation," he added.

Rajya Sabha Leader of the Opposition and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge spoke about Rahul Gandhi’s personal connection to Jammu and Kashmir and urged voters to support the Congress in order to safeguard the country, its culture, and citizens' rights.

Kharge remarked, "If we win in J&K, we will gain control across India. As Rahul Gandhi mentioned, his bond with J&K goes beyond mere preference; it is a matter of heritage. We hope J&K will support us in the upcoming elections. The BJP always controls the timing and location of elections, directing their frustrations solely at Congress, as no other party presents a real challenge. Rahul Gandhi is the only one who dares to fight back. We need your votes to protect our country, culture, and rights."

Security measures have been increased outside the hotel where Rahul Gandhi and Kharge held their meeting. The Congress party is expected to contest the Jammu and Kashmir elections in alliance with the National Conference, although a formal announcement is still pending. The two parties were previously allied during the Lok Sabha elections as part of the INDIA bloc.