On the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, the ruling National Conference (NC) leaders staged a protest on Wednesday in Jammu, demanding the restoration of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Scores of NC leaders, including MLAs and dedicated party workers, gathered at the party headquarters, Nawa-i-Subah, to express their discontent and reaffirm their commitment to the cause.
Leading the protest was Minister Sakina Itoo, who emphasized the need for restoring the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. As the protestors carried placards advocating for the reinstatement of Article 370, they attempted to march beyond the party office complex. However, police intervened, preventing them from proceeding further.
In her address to reporters, Minister Itoo stated, “We demand that our special status and rights, which were snatched from us, be restored. Our party has been protesting peacefully for the restoration of our rights since then.” Itoo underscored the party’s unwavering stance on the issue and reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir deserves its rightful status back.
The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 led to significant changes in the political and social landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, stripping the region of its autonomy. The NC leaders argue that the rights and guarantees previously enjoyed by J&K residents must be reinstated to restore peace and stability in the region.
Itoo further explained, “We also passed a resolution in the assembly with a two-third majority, and another resolution in the cabinet which has been sent to the Union government to ensure that our voice reaches them and the rights which were snatched be restored.” These statements reflect the serious concern among the NC leaders regarding how the changes have affected the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The protest highlights the ongoing tension surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 and the strong sentiments held by various political parties in Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s unique cultural and political identity remains a focal point in ongoing debates about its governance and the perceptions of justice among its citizens.
As the protesters called for the restoration of Article 370, the NC reinforced its commitment to advocating for the rights of the people. The continued push from the party signifies the underlying challenges that persist in Jammu and Kashmir, a territory deeply affected by its political history.
