The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra has called for an impartial judicial probe into the Leh violence of September 24, which tragically claimed the lives of four individuals. On Thursday, Karra emphasized that the inquiry should ideally be conducted by a sitting High Court judge or, if that is not feasible, by a retired judge of integrity.
Karra stated, “Whatever happened in Leh should not be repeated, but there must be an inquiry. If a sitting High Court judge is not available on fast track, then the probe should be entrusted to a credible retired judge.” His assertion reflects a growing demand within the political community for accountability and transparency following the deadly incident.
In his address, Karra also took a moment to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, coinciding with their birth anniversaries. He expressed that their leadership, ideology, and commitment to a self-reliant India continue to resonate today. “Gandhian philosophy serves as an inspiration across the globe and is even acknowledged at the United Nations,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, Karra noted that the decisions surrounding seat sharing and alliances would reside with the Congress leadership at the central level. He highlighted that senior leader Digvijay Singh has already taken on the responsibility as the observer for the elections.
Touching on political inclusivity, Karra further commented on the situation of Independent legislator Mehraj Malik. He posited that Malik should be permitted to attend the Assembly session, stating, “Even Engineer Rashid was allowed to participate in Parliament while lodged in Tihar Jail. By the same analogy, Mehraj Malik should also be allowed.” His comments reflect ongoing discussions surrounding legislative access for all elected representatives, regardless of their current circumstances.
