Srinagar, 20 Aug: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the special constitutional status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir reflected its distinct and unique constitutional relationship with the Union, a legacy that remained central to the National Conference’s political vision.
Addressing a gathering, Dr Farooq said that even though the constitutional provisions relating to Jammu and Kashmir had been altered unilaterally, the National Conference would continue its struggle for its restoration. He said the issue remained at the top of the party’s agenda and that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had a right to raise their voice for restoration of their constitutional rights.
He said that the National Conference had repeatedly stated, in its meetings, rallies and conventions, that the party would fulfil the promises it had made to the people. He reiterated that the party would never retreat from its position and would continue its political and constitutional struggle.
Dr Farooq said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir were facing numerous issues and difficulties and that the present circumstances required an elected government with a strong mandate. He said the government must have all the necessary powers to address people’s problems effectively and ensure development and good governance.
He said that political institutions must respect the aspirations of the people and that their voices should be heard. He also stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that the rights of the people were protected.
Dr Farooq said that society could progress only when all sections of society worked together. He called for greater attention to education, social welfare and the empowerment of young people, saying that the youth were an important part of the future of the region.
He appealed to political workers and the public to remain united and work towards strengthening peace, social harmony and development. He said that the National Conference’s struggle was not merely the responsibility of one individual or institution, but a collective responsibility of its leadership, workers and people.