SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led National Conference (NC) legislators and Members of Parliament to Dachigam National Park on the outskirts of Srinagar for a day-long strategy session on Wednesday. The meeting concluded with a political call to arms — a protest in New Delhi on the opening day of Parliament's monsoon session, demanding the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood.
Surprise Destination
Party MLAs initially gathered at Omar's Gupkar Road residence in Srinagar before boarding a bus and joining a convoy that many believed was headed to Chashma Shahi, one of the Mughal gardens in Srinagar. The destination remained under wraps until vehicles rolled towards Dachigam, approximately 22 kilometers from Srinagar, best known as the habitat of Kashmir's endangered hangul deer. Omar later stated that the venue had been chosen well in advance.
Resolution to Intensify Campaign
NC spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq confirmed that participants resolved to intensify the campaign for restoration of statehood and special status. The meeting comes amid heightened political activity following Omar's remarks at a college function on May 6, where he said: "Trust me, I want to burst like a cloudburst." He had indicated he would speak more openly on key issues after Eid.
The decision to hold the strategy session at Dachigam, a protected area known for its wildlife, underscored the party's desire for secrecy and focus. The upcoming protest in New Delhi is expected to draw attention to the NC's demand for the return of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, which was revoked in August 2019.
