NC MP Chowdhary Ramzan Raises Statehood, Tourism, Farmers’ Issues Concerning J&K at Parliament Meeting – Alfaaz – The Words

Srinagar: National Conference senior leader and Member of Parliament Chowdhary Ramzan (Rajya Sabha) on Tuesday raised several political, legal and economic issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir during a meeting of floor leaders of all political parties held in Parliament. He urged the Union Government to address the pressing governance and welfare concerns affecting the region and other vulnerable sections.

The meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Health Minister and Leader of the Rajya Sabha J P Nadda, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State L Murugan, and floor leaders representing various political parties.

As learnt, Ramzan pressed for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that despite a strong popular mandate, the elected government had not been allowed to function with adequate autonomy. He maintained that existing constraints were limiting the government’s ability to discharge its constitutional responsibilities towards the people.

He also highlighted issues related to prisoners from Jammu and Kashmir lodged in jails outside the Union Territory. Ramzan urged that such inmates be brought back so they could access legal aid as provided under law. He further sought the release of prisoners involved in minor offences, stating that extended detention in such cases caused unnecessary hardship to families.

The NC MP also expressed concern over the treatment of labourers, students and traders following the recent Delhi bomb blast. While condemning acts of terrorism, he said innocent citizens should not face harassment, profiling or collective suspicion in the name of security measures.

Ramzan sought relief for farmers affected by the prolonged closure of the National Highway and successive natural calamities, including hailstorms and untimely rainfall. He called for the waiver of Kisan Credit Card loans in affected areas.

He also demanded relief for the tourism sector, seeking suspension of interest and recovery of loans. He said the sector had suffered significant losses following the Pahalgam attack.

In addition, Ramzan called for a review of the 40 percent contribution requirement under the MGNREGA scheme. He said poorer regions like Jammu and Kashmir were unable to bear such financial obligations, which diluted the purpose of employment generation programmes.