SRINAGAR: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Friday reiterated that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional and democratic rights, along with statehood, remains the party’s foremost priority, urging people across all three regions to support the struggle.
He said the restoration of statehood was an urgent necessity, as it would provide considerable relief to people and enable the elected government to function without hindrance and take effective decisions in the public interest.
Farooq made these remarks while interacting with public delegations from different areas, prominent citizens, representatives of traders’ associations, party functionaries, workers and leaders at his residence in Jammu.
He said Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was the legacy of the National Conference and remained close to the hearts of its people. He asserted that the party would continue its struggle for its restoration and was prepared to make any sacrifice for the cause.
Describing the National Conference as more than a political party seeking public support to secure power, Farooq said it had played a guiding role in society since its inception by working towards the eradication of social evils and promoting humanity, unity and justice.
He said the party had made immense sacrifices to safeguard the fundamental human rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Farooq asserted that the National Conference would pursue every peaceful and democratic means to restore the rights taken away from the people.
“We have never changed our position in the face of intimidation or pressure in the past, nor will we do so in the future if it means compromising the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Maintaining that the party belonged to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said its agenda would continue to reflect their feelings, aspirations and expectations.
Expressing hope that statehood would be restored without further delay, Farooq said the formation of an elected government had brought relief to people at the grassroots level, who were beginning to experience positive changes.
He added that the government remained committed to public service and urged people to approach their elected representatives with their grievances and concerns, saying they had been elected to address public issues.
The National Conference president also called upon party functionaries to continue promoting brotherhood, unity, equality, justice and humility.
