By Ashok Sharma
The demand for a separate Jammu State is not driven by emotion or opposition to any region. It is a call for equal opportunities, transparent governance and balanced development.
The developmental gap between Jammu and Kashmir is evident in the establishment of key public institutions. The University of Kashmir was established in 1948-49, while the University of Jammu came into existence only in 1969. Government Medical College Srinagar began in 1959, whereas Government Medical College Jammu was established in 1973. Kashmir also received SKIMS, a premier super-speciality medical institution, while Jammu continues to seek comparable healthcare infrastructure. These delays deprived an entire generation in Jammu of access to higher education, medical training and quality healthcare.
Tourism tells a similar story. Every year, more than one crore pilgrims visit Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, yet Jammu has never been developed into a comprehensive tourism circuit. Within just 100 kilometres of Katra lie snow-covered mountains, rivers, meadows, waterfalls, forests and historic sites capable of attracting visitors throughout the year. With proper planning and investment, tourism could generate lakhs of jobs and transform the region’s economy.
Financial transparency is another concern. A significant share of the Union Territory’s revenue comes from Central Government grants, yet there is no detailed public bifurcation showing how expenditure is distributed between the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. Recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports have also highlighted issues including ₹1,941 crore booked under Minor Head-800, pending utilisation certificates worth ₹4,105 crore and Abstract Contingent Bills amounting to ₹15,607 crore, reinforcing the need for greater accountability.
The youth of Jammu are not asking for privilege. They are asking for fairness. The demand for a separate Jammu State is a constitutional call for equitable development, transparent administration and equal opportunities. After decades of waiting, Jammu deserves not promises, but justice.