SC Last Ray of Hope for J&K Statehood: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary
By: Javid Amin | 12 October 2025
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has said that the Supreme Court of India remains the “last ray of hope” for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, sharply attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for “hoodwinking” the public with what he called “symbolic politics.”
Speaking to reporters in Bhagwati Nagar, Choudhary accused the BJP-led Centre of ignoring real governance challenges during its 11-year rule.
“For over a decade, BJP has offered nothing but lollipops. It has ignored unemployment, the plight of daily wagers, and administrative transparency,” he said.
Legal Battle and Political Weight
Choudhary’s remarks come as multiple petitions, including those filed by academician Zahoor Ahmad Bhat and activist Ahmad Malik, are pending before the Supreme Court. The petitions seek the implementation of the Centre’s promise to restore statehood “at the earliest.”
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir trust the Supreme Court. When politics fails, justice must prevail,” Choudhary said, reflecting the growing sentiment that legal recourse is the only credible path left.
NC Government Under Scrutiny
The statement coincides with the first anniversary of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC)-led government. The administration is under increasing pressure over delays in governance reforms, lack of clarity on land rights, and administrative bottlenecks.
Choudhary urged citizens to demand accountability and push for constitutional safeguards to ensure statehood and democratic rights are not indefinitely delayed.
Voices from the Ground
Public sentiment around statehood is intensifying across regions and political lines. Civil society groups, trade bodies, student unions, and local panchayat leaders have echoed similar demands.
Key expectations include:
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Legislative autonomy to safeguard regional identity and democratic representation
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Local control over land and job policies
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Transparent and accountable governance
Many residents believe that statehood restoration is directly tied to economic revival, investment, and political stability.
A Pivotal Moment
Analysts say Choudhary’s remarks highlight both legal and emotional urgency. “The SC hearings have now become more than a legal matter—they’re a barometer of trust between the people and the institutions,” said a senior political observer.
With the court expected to resume hearings soon, political parties are closely watching the outcome, which could shape future alliances, public perception, and governance direction in J&K.
