Bhim pitches for trifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir
National Panthers Party (NPP) Chief Patron, Prof Bhim Singh, has called for ‘reorganization’ of the state, terming it as ‘the only way to end decades old conflict in J&K.’
As per a party statement, while addressing media persons at Goverdhan (UP) on Sunday, Singh said “the State needs to be reorganized with the formation of Jammu Pradesh, Kashmir Valley and Ladakh-Baltistan (states)”.
“J&K was created in 1846 by Treaty of Amritsar through a heterogeneous union of Gilgit, Ladakh, Baltistan, Jammu and Kashmir Valley under political compulsions existing at that time. The situation stands changed and it is highly essential under the present circumstances in the sub-continent that the people of these regions are given benefit of modern history in the light of the distinct geographical, anthropological, political, cultural and historic background and situation”, the statement said quoting Singh.
“Ladakh and Gilgit-Baltistan form a distinct cultural unit having different geographical map as compared to the Kashmir Valley and Jammu Pradesh. Dogra-Pahari-Gujjar cultural identity has to be recognized on its merit and so should be the case with the cultural, linguistic and historical identity of the people living in the Kashmir valley”, he said.
The NPP Supremo described the present state-centre relations as a part of the “tragedy which people of J&K have been experiencing after the promulgation of the Constitution of India on 26th January, 1950”.
Reiterating his opposition to Article 370 of Indian constitution, Bhim Singh said: “What is the status of J&K after the monarchy was removed? What is the relevance of Article 370 after the Maharaja himself was fired? What was the necessity to continue with a draconian Article 370 in the Indian Constitution”?
He demanded uniform Constitution in the country and introduction of fundamental rights to the people residing in J&K.
“When every citizen of India got freedom and has been enjoying the fundamental rights under Chapter-III of the Indian Constitution, why there is no chapter on Human Rights in the Constitution of J&K? Why J&K has separate flag and the constitution when it forms integral part of India”, he asked
Singh said that as long as J&K is not reorganized and fundamental rights granted to every Indian citizen residing in J&K, there could be no peace and harmony.
