NC to keep up fight for J&K’s autonomy
Former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, reappointed as party chief, calls for sustained and stable dialogue
SRINAGAR Jammu and Kashmir’s largest opposition party, the National Conference (NC), on Sunday passed a resolution to continue its fight for restoration of autonomy to the state as enshrined in the Constitution.
In a delegates’ meeting, attended by thousands of party workers, the NC leadership vowed to continue its struggle for restoration of autonomy.
“We will continue to strive for the restoration of autonomy and restoration of Article 370 to its original, pristine form, while condemning those divisive voices who are opposed to the sovereign constitutional guarantees extended to the people of the state,” the resolution read.
The party also called for a political initiative and a stop to “use of force”.
“The lack of political initiative and focus on military might will further alienate people,” the party said.
It also urged both India and Pakistan to initiate a sustained and comprehensive dialogue process to resolve all outstanding issues.
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“The state of J&K is the worst victim of animosity between the two neighbouring countries and has the most to benefit from mutual cooperation and peace between the two countries,” the party said.
Farooq Abdullah, who was reappointed the party’s president, said, “Today the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will not raise slogans in your (Centre’s) support unless you win our hearts and return our autonomy.’’
“Kashmir cannot be won by force or cowed down by a gun. Kashmir is a political issue. Unless its dealt with politically, there will be no peace,’’ he added while speaking at the event.
The party’s resolution comes days after former home minister and senior congress leader P Chidambaram issued a statement in support of greater autonomy for J&K.
The Congress, however, sought to distance itself from the controversial remarks which stirred a controversy with several senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ministers attacking the Congress.