Srinagar, 28 Sep: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Monday welcomed the passage of the resolution seeking restoration of statehood in the Legislative Assembly, stating that it is now the responsibility of the Union Government to respect the resolution passed by the elected representatives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and restore statehood in accordance with the aspirations, sentiments and expectations of the people. The party also urged that the elected government be allowed to function effectively and without unnecessary obstruction.
In a joint statement, JKNC Provincial Presidents Kashmir, Adv. Showkat Ahmad Mir, and Jammu, Adv. Rattan Lal Gupta, said that despite the passage of two years, the Union Government has failed to fulfil its commitment to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. They said that immediately after the formation of the elected government, the first Cabinet meeting had passed a resolution seeking restoration of statehood and forwarded it to the Centre, but no tangible outcome has emerged so far.
They said the Supreme Court had directed the Union Government to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir at the earliest after the conduct of elections. However, even two years after the elections, the Centre’s promised “earliest” action is yet to materialise.
Describing the resolution as historic, the two leaders said that its reference to the 2000 Autonomy Resolution and the 2024 resolution on special status makes it an important milestone in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Provincial Presidents said the disclosures made by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on the floor of the House regarding the manner in which the BJP, through the office of the Lieutenant Governor, is creating hurdles in the functioning of the elected government, including obstructing the regularisation of daily-wagers and streamlining the reservation system, has exposed BJP and underlined the need for restoration of statehood.
They said the revelations made by the Chief Minister regarding obstacles being created in the functioning of the government were extremely concerning and condemnable. “Such a situation is unbecoming of a democratic country and strikes at the principles of the Constitution and democracy,” they said.
The party leaders urged the Union Government to end discriminatory approach towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir and provide them an opportunity to live with dignity, peace and security. They also called for the elected democratic government to be allowed to serve the people without any form of obstruction.