Dr. Karan Singh, senior Congress leader and son of the last ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, advised the central government to restore the former state’s status. Jammu and Kashmir, once considered the crown of the nation, was reduced to a Union Territory in 2019.
Speaking on the recent exit polls, Dr. Singh emphasized the need for a stable government. He praised the electoral process, stating, “It is a big achievement that the entire election process went violence-free. These elections have been free and fair, which took place after a gap of ten years.”
Dr. Singh expressed optimism about the upcoming results, due on October 8th. “The final results will be the voice of the people, and it will be clear whom they have elected,” he said.
Addressing the issue of Jammu and Kashmir’s status, Dr. Singh reiterated his long-standing position: “I have been asking for the restoration of statehood for J&K. We have been the crown of the nation; why was it downgraded? It should be restored at the earliest.”
When questioned about the potential for the NC-Congress alliance to seek support from the PDP if it falls short of a majority, Dr. Singh declined to comment. “I’m no longer an active politician, so I will not comment,” he added. The statement from Dr. Singh, a respected figure in Indian politics, adds weight to the ongoing debate about Jammu and Kashmir’s status and its political future.
