KATHUA: Tariq Hameed Karra, president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), on Sunday urged youth and farmers to unite against what he termed a "pro-rich" and "anti-people" government at the Centre.

Addressing a 'Kissan Sammelan' in Nagri area of Kathua district, Karra criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government, alleging that people have suffered during its tenure and accusing it of prioritising the interests of big corporates.

He also accused the Centre of failing to fulfil its promise of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, and pledged that the Congress would continue its struggle for its restoration.

"The common citizens have faced significant hardships during the past 12 years of BJP rule, which has served only big corporate interests," Karra said, calling on farmers and youth to work together to oppose the government.

In a sharp remark, he alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had compromised national dignity, referring to his engagement with former US President Donald Trump.

JKPCC working president Raman Bhalla also criticised the Centre, saying the continued delay in restoring statehood has led to governance challenges. "The people of Jammu and Kashmir are suffering due to the dual control system and lack of statehood," he said.

Former minister Lal Singh accused the BJP of undermining regional identity and interests by bifurcating the erstwhile state into two Union Territories. He alleged that local resources, jobs and land were being exploited, and raised concerns over rising crime and drug-related issues affecting youth in areas such as Kathua, Samba and Jammu.