Srinagar: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir should not remain an exception to India’s democratic and federal framework, and reiterated his party’s demand for the restoration of full statehood and a fully empowered elected government.
Addressing reporters after visiting Duratyar in Bijbehara to offer condolences to the family of former National Conference block president Muhammad Ismail Wani, Dr Abdullah said the continuation of what he described as a “dual power structure” despite the presence of an elected government was inconsistent with democratic principles.
He alleged that assurances made by the BJP-led Union Government following the August 5, 2019 constitutional changes had not been fulfilled and questioned why Jammu and Kashmir continued to be denied the powers enjoyed by elected governments in other states.
Referring to recent incidents of violence in Bijbehara and Kulgam, the National Conference president claimed that promises of lasting peace following the constitutional changes had not materialised. He said Jammu and Kashmir continued to be treated differently despite assurances that it would be brought on par with the rest of the country.
Dr Abdullah also said repeated assurances by the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister regarding the restoration of statehood and democratic rights should now be implemented. He maintained that Jammu and Kashmir could realise its full potential only under a fully empowered elected government and said the National Conference would continue its constitutional and democratic campaign for the restoration of the people’s rights.
During his visit, Dr Abdullah offered prayers for the late Muhammad Ismail Wani, who, according to the party, remained bedridden for nearly eight years after sustaining injuries in a militant attack in 2019 before passing away.
He was accompanied by Provincial President Showkat Mir, legislators Hasnain Masoodi, Dr Bashir Ahmad Veeri, Altaf Ahmad Wani and Abdul Majeed Bhat Larmi, Advocate Reyaz Khan, and Publicity Secretary Mir G.M. Saqi.