Srinagar, July 17 -- It has now been six years since August 5, 2019, since the revocation of Article 370 and the simultaneous downgrading of the J&K state into a union territory. However, the home minister Amit Shah, at the time, assured the nation that statehood would be restored, albeit at an "appropriate time." That time, clearly, is long overdue.

The Congress has now called for statehood legislation in the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament. According to the ruling NC, there is simply no reason for further delay. J&K has held peaceful elections, seen a relative calm in recent years, and demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity.

There is also the Ladakh question. Congress has sought Ladakh's inclusion under the 6th Schedu...