New Government in J&K needs to maintain a Flexible Approach towards Central Govt. – M.Y. Tarigami, fifth time re-elected MLA from Kulgam constituency of the south Kashmir said in an interview. Mohammad Yusuf Rather, born into a farmer family came to be known as ‘Tarigami’ after Press Trust of India journalist P.N. Jalali, during a press briefing asked Sheikh Abdullah, the then Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir about his arrest. Referring to Mohammad Yusuf’s village Sheikh Abdullah responded, ‘Woh Jo Tarigam Wala’ (the one who’s from Tarigam) since then newspapers started writing his name as ‘Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami’.
CPI(M) leader M.Y. Tarigami highlighted the need for the new government in Jammu and Kashmir to have a flexible approach in dealing with the BJP-led Central government. He suggested that instead of taking a rigid stance, the new government should focus on effectively apprising the central government about people’s concerns in J & K urging the central government to acknowledge the ground realities in the Union Territory.
“We will make every possible effort to deliver a clear message to the government in Delhi, representing the demands of the people and urging them to consider the ground realities in Kashmir. Rigidity should have no place,” Tarigami said in an interview with PTI Videos.
He underscored the importance of moving forward, stressing that the restoration of the rights of the people in Jammu and Kashmir is a top priority. “We will collectively demand this on the floor of the House,” added Tarigami, whose party has joined forces with the National Conference (NC) and Congress in a pre-poll alliance.
Tarigami, who is re-elected for a fifth consecutive term in the Kulgam constituency of south Kashmir, while replying to questions related to the controversy regarding nomination of five MLAs in the assembly by the Lieutenant Governor, Tarigami said confidently that the coalition has sufficient strength in the Assembly to overcome any such challenges.
A state was reduced to a Union Territory
Reflecting on the political changes in Jammu and Kashmir, Tarigami noted, “A state was reduced to a Union Territory, almost like a large municipality. Further amendments under the Reorganisation Act disempowered both the legislature and the cabinet, giving more power to the Government of India’s nominee.”
Tarigami emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir gave mandate to the new government and are very hopeful for the future “We will not disappoint them,” Tarigami stated, adding that every institution, including in J&K, have a constitutional duty to respect the people’s mandate. “This is not a favor; it’s our legitimate right.”
On his fifth victory in a row, Tarigami attributed his success to the long-standing and deep connection he is been maintaining with the people. . “They know me, my work, and my shortcomings. They are the true judges, and I have always valued their judgment.”
Talking about the participation of Jamaat-e-Islami members in the elections, Tarigami said that democracy provides everyone the right to take part in the electoral process but voiced concerns over “unseen hands” sponsored candidates or proxies. He also expressed faith in the wisdom of the public of Jammu and Kashmir.
Replying to a question whether he is expecting a cabinet position in the new government he replied, “Opportunities were presented earlier, but my party did not agree,”
PDP’s poor performance
Commenting on the poor performance of People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) in south Kashmir which in the past was its stronghold, Tarigami remarked that the party had once enjoyed substantial support but had since lost its footing. “This reflects what they did or didn’t do. Perhaps they have learned their lessons, but the journey ahead may require unity.”
Speaking about potential challenges that the new government is expected to face, Tarigami expressed optimism that the coalition would surely tackle them jointly. “Why speculate? When hurdles arise, we will face them together, as we know how to act in emergencies.”