Tarun Chugh Says Centre Committed to Restoring J&K Statehood, Criticises NC’s Protest Plan

New Delhi, July 13: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National General Secretary Tarun Chugh on Monday reiterated that the Central Government remains committed to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir while criticising the National Conference’s proposed protest at Jantar Mantar over the issue. Responding to the planned demonstration, Chugh said the Centre has repeatedly clarified its commitment to restoring statehood at an appropriate time. He alleged that Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has, on several occasions, attempted to internationalise the issue by referring to foreign leaders, calling such remarks “unfortunate.” Emphasising that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, Chugh said all matters concerning the Union Territory would be resolved within the framework of the Constitution and the country’s democratic institutions. Highlighting the Centre’s initiatives in the region since the abrogation of Article 370, the BJP leader said democracy, development, tourism, public trust, and good governance have witnessed significant progress. He cited major infrastructure projects, including the Chenab Rail Bridge—the world’s highest railway bridge—the Zojila Tunnel connecting Leh with Kashmir, and the expansion of road connectivity to villages under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, as examples of the government’s development agenda in Jammu and Kashmir.