The National Conference's upcoming protest in Delhi will serve as a powerful reflection of the people's demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary said on Monday.
Protest scheduled for July 20
The party has planned a demonstration at Jantar Mantar on July 20, the opening day of the monsoon session of Parliament. Choudhary emphasized that the protest is not merely a political event but a collective expression of the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
"The people of Jammu and Kashmir have been demanding the restoration of statehood ever since it was downgraded to a Union Territory in 2019. This protest will amplify their voice," Choudhary said.
Statehood a central issue
The Deputy CM reiterated that the National Conference remains committed to the cause of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. He accused the central government of delaying the restoration despite repeated promises.
"The central government has made commitments in Parliament and elsewhere about restoring statehood, but no concrete steps have been taken. We will continue to press for our legitimate rights," he added.
The protest is expected to draw leaders and workers from across the region. Party president Farooq Abdullah and other senior leaders are likely to address the gathering.
Political context
The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 led to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. Since then, political parties in the region, led by the National Conference and the People's Democratic Party, have consistently demanded the restoration of statehood.
Choudhary said the protest would also highlight other issues, including unemployment, inflation, and the alleged erosion of democratic rights in the region.
