Kupwara: Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, on Monday criticized the repeated conduct of Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that such exercises hold little meaning if democratic institutions are not fully respected and empowered.
Speaking to media persons in Kupwara, Wani remarked that holding elections “after elections” does not serve the larger democratic purpose when key political commitments remain unfulfilled. He was referring to the continued delay in the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir despite the successful conduct of Assembly elections.
Wani emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had participated enthusiastically in the electoral process and delivered a strong mandate, hoping for the return of full democratic rights. However, he noted that the absence of statehood undermines the spirit of democracy and weakens governance at all levels.
“Elections after elections mean nothing if democratic setups are not respected,” he said, adding that genuine empowerment of elected bodies is essential for addressing public issues effectively.
He further stated that Panchayat institutions must not be reduced to symbolic exercises, and called for clarity from the central leadership on the timeline for restoring statehood.
Wani reiterated that the people deserve accountable governance backed by constitutional guarantees, and urged that their aspirations be honored without further delay.
