Kashmiri politicians unite behind IIOJK assembly push for restoring special status
Srinagar: Kashmiri political leaders have expressed support for the resolution passed in the Assembly of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), calling for the restoration of the territory’s special status that was revoked by the Indian government in August 2019.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a significant political move, the IIOJK Assembly today passed a bill seeking the restoration of the territory’s special status, receiving broad backing from members of the PDP, CPI(M), AAP, and other parties, with the BJP being the sole opposition during the voice vote.
Senior National Conference leader and Indian parliament member Agha Ruhullah Mehdi praised Omar Abdullah and his government for their commitment to the resolution but emphasized that the fight was far from over. “Today, only the doors have been opened through the Assembly,” he said, adding that the majority of legislators had supported the resolution. Ruhullah also reiterated his rejection of the office of the Lieutenant Governor, calling it meaningless in a democratic setup.
CPI (M) MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami hailed the resolution as historic, stating, “This has been our commitment — to restore what was taken from us on August 5, 2019.” He urged New Delhi to initiate talks for the restoration of Article 370, highlighting that the Assembly had honored its promise.
PDP senior leader Mehboob Beg emphasized that the resolution was a crucial step to honor the will of the people of IIOJK. He urged unity and determination, adding, “This is the will of the people, and we must remain relentless.” PDP youth leader Waheed Para welcomed the move, stating that the resolution reflected the wishes of the people, though he suggested some language could have been stronger.
Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir called for the immediate restoration of statehood to IIOJK, with constitutional guarantees, including protection of land rights and jobs. He stressed that the assembly elections had made it clear that the people of the territory vehemently oppose the reorganization and seek the restoration of their dignity, honor, and rights.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik expressed his party’s support for the resolution, emphasizing the need to protect the land and job rights of the people of IIOJK. He criticized the BJP for undermining the rights of the territory’s residents.
