Srinagar, Feb 22: Scores of young men and women formally joined the Indian National Congress at Lal Chowk here during a membership ceremony led by Dr Audil Farooq Mir Lasjan, President of the District Congress Committee Srinagar.
The occasion evolved beyond a routine political event into what Dr Audil described as “a reaffirmation of constitutional faith at a time when institutions demand vigilant guardianship”.
Personally supervising each enrollment, Dr Audil underscored that Congress stands not merely as a political platform but as “a custodian of constitutional morality, secular ethos, and inclusive progress”.
Without resorting to rhetoric, he drew a clear contrast with the ruling BJP, remarking that “performative nationalism cannot substitute accountable governance and dissent in a democracy must be heard, not hunted”.
The youth who joined represented diverse social and economic backgrounds from the Lal Chowk Assembly segment, the Congress leader said, adding that their decision was rooted in conviction, not convenience.
“Congress does not engineer defections; it nurtures belief,” he stated, adding that the party builds its mandate “through persuasion, patience and principle, not through political acquisitions”.
During an open interaction, the young participants articulated aspirations centred on dignity, employment, and meaningful democratic participation. “Peace must mean opportunity, not mere silence,” one participant observed, echoing the collective sentiment.
Dr Audil acknowledged that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir seek development measured not only in infrastructure but in sustainable livelihoods and transparent governance.
Highlighting ideological differences, he remarked, “Where we see diversity as India’s strength, others see it as a mobilising tool. Where we prioritise employment and empowerment, the nation faces an unprecedented unemployment crisis.”
He further asserted that robust democratic institutions remain the backbone of India’s republic and cautioned against any dilution of their autonomy.
The gathering concluded with renewed resolve. Dr Audil described the moment as “a covenant between a party and a people, a shared commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.”
He reaffirmed that Congress will continue to advocate governance that is consultative, transparent, and firmly anchored in constitutional values, ensuring that citizens remain at the heart of national life rather than on its margins.
