Kashmir Impulse Desk

Jammu, July 7

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Congress party on Tuesday called for an independent, court-monitored investigation into allegations relating to donations received by the Ram temple trust in Ayodhya, while also criticising the central government over the delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a joint press conference in Jammu, senior Congress leaders said reports circulating in sections of the media regarding alleged financial irregularities had raised concerns and warranted an impartial inquiry.

The party demanded that the investigation be monitored by the Supreme Court or conducted under the supervision of a retired or serving High Court judge, arguing that it would help ensure transparency and accountability.

Congress leaders also sought the restructuring of the temple trust to include prominent religious figures and spiritual leaders.

The press conference quickly broadened into criticism of the BJP-led central government on a range of Jammu and Kashmir-related issues, including statehood, infrastructure development and public services.

Chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma accused the BJP of failing to fulfil its commitment to restore statehood after elections in the Union Territory.

Working president Raman Bhalla criticised infrastructure arrangements linked to the annual Amarnath Yatra, alleging inadequate expansion of facilities for pilgrims and delays in tourism-related projects in Jammu.

Former minister Mula Ram highlighted prolonged electricity outages and water shortages in parts of the Jammu region, saying farmers cultivating paddy were struggling because irregular power supply had affected irrigation through tube wells.

The Congress leaders also expressed concern over recent flash floods and landslides in the Chenab Valley, urging the administration to expedite relief, rehabilitation and restoration work in affected districts.