SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) MP Agha Syed Ruhullah, representing the Lok Sabha, responded to public questions posed by Waheed Parra, a prominent PDP leader who recently raised concerns about Ruhullah’s parliamentary approach on critical Jammu and Kashmir issues. Addressing queries on the restoration of Article 370, the liquor bill, and actions against laws such as the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Ruhullah emphasised his steadfast commitment to the cause of restoring JK’s special status.
Parra questioned Ruhullah’s decision not to table a resolution condemning the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 and queried the MP’s legislative approach in advocating for J&K’s autonomy. In response, Ruhullah argued that prematurely forcing a resolution or bill on Article 370 in a BJP-majority Parliament could result in the risk of formal parliamentary rejection, further complicating the quest for autonomy.
“The struggle for the return of our rights and dignity is not a ladder to a chair for me. It is my belief and conviction,” Ruhullah stated, stressing that he is deeply committed to addressing J&K’s political status through a blend of pragmatism and sentiment. He defended his choice to prioritise other legislative avenues, including a bill on liquor restrictions, aimed at aligning J&K’s policies with states like Gujarat, which have dry laws. According to Ruhullah, this legislative move was calculated to open a debate with the hope of building support within Parliament.
Ruhullah highlighted that his strategy has always been to create dialogue within Parliament. “I did not protest outside Parliament. I took them on inside the Parliament,” he said, referring to his stance on contentious issues. He also noted his efforts to foster collaboration with parliamentarians across parties, stating that he has formally engaged with his colleagues on the restoration of Article 370 without necessarily introducing bills that face probable rejection.
Responding to further questions about his actions concerning UAPA and AFSPA, Ruhullah said he submitted a starred question in Parliament seeking their revocation, though it was not listed in the session’s business. He assured that as his tenure progressed, he would continue pressing for the removal of these laws. “I have only had one working session of Parliament till now. There is a lot to come,” he affirmed.
Parra also brought up concerns around the lack of protest against certain reservation policies impacting J&K. Addressing this, Ruhullah reiterated his commitment to J&K’s cause as a critical priority for himself and the JKNC, noting that the party has included this issue in its manifesto, underscoring its long-standing dedication to addressing the grievances of J&K’s citizens.
