Cong promises ‘meaningful’ freedom, funds

The Congress today tried to blunt the National Conference and the BJP’s poll planks, promising greater and meaningful autonomy under th...

The Congress today tried to blunt the National Conference and the BJP’s poll planks, promising greater and meaningful autonomy under the Constitution and regional development boards with statutory status for three regions to remove regional imbalances.

Releasing the party’s manifesto, J-K unit president Ghulam Nabi Azad clarified: ‘‘Our greater autonomy does not mean that of pre-1953 situation as they (NC) demand. It will be in accordance with the 1975 accord between Indira Gandhi and Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah.’’

The party promised regional development boards for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh which will “plan projects to remove disparities in political, financial and administrative fields, besides clearing the backlog of work’’.

Story continues below this ad

Azad said the party will set up a finance commission to provide adequate resources to the three regions for balanced development and press for inclusion of Dogri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Azad promised a campaign to bring Kashmiri Pandits and other migrants back to the state. Alternate land will be given to those with homes within Pakistan’s firing range.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

‘Did Nazis ask Jews to leave?’: Netanyahu defies genocide allegations against Israel

World5 hr ago

Netanyahu defends Israel's actions in Gaza, blaming Hamas for using civilians as shields. He criticizes world leaders for appeasing evil and condemns their condemnation of Israel. He addresses recent attacks by Hamas and vows to bring all hostages home. The conflict has led to thousands of deaths, according to Hamas-run authorities.

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS