Jammu, July 13: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday asserted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will no longer remain silent over the delay in restoration of statehood, declaring that the proposed July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi will mark a new and decisive phase in the democratic campaign for reinstating the region’s constitutional status.
Addressing a large public gathering in Jammu, Omar Abdullah said the people had exercised patience for several years after repeated assurances from the Union Government regarding restoration of statehood, but the continued delay had left the people with no option except to intensify their peaceful and democratic movement.
The Chief Minister said the forthcoming protest in the national capital is not aimed at political confrontation but is intended to remind the Centre of its commitment made before the people of Jammu and Kashmir and before the Supreme Court regarding restoration of statehood. He maintained that the demand represents the collective aspirations of the people and rises above party politics.
Omar Abdullah stressed that statehood is essential for strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring administrative accountability and safeguarding the rights and aspirations of the people. He said Jammu and Kashmir deserves the same democratic status enjoyed by other states and that its residents cannot be expected to wait indefinitely for the fulfilment of promises.
Reiterating that the movement will remain peaceful and constitutional, the Chief Minister said the National Conference and its supporters would continue to pursue democratic means to press for restoration of statehood. He urged people from all sections of society to unite in support of the campaign, describing it as a people’s movement rather than a party programme.
The Chief Minister also took a swipe at the BJP over its criticism of the planned protest, alleging that attempts were being made to divert attention from the core issue of statehood restoration. He said the focus should remain on fulfilling the long-pending commitment made to the people rather than creating political controversies around the campaign.
Omar Abdullah further said the July 20 demonstration at Jantar Mantar would send a strong democratic message that the people of Jammu and Kashmir remain united in seeking restoration of full statehood. He added that the campaign would continue until the constitutional promise made to the people is honoured.
The National Conference has announced that the protest will coincide with the Monsoon Session of Parliament and is expected to witness participation from party leaders, legislators, workers and supporters, with efforts also being made to build wider political and civil society support for the demand.(KNC)
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