PDP rejects Kashmir’s statehood without restoration of special status
Party demands restoration of Articles 370, 35A
Srinagar: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has reiterated its demand for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, rejecting the idea of statehood without special status as a superficial remedy that ignores the core political grievance of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the PDP in a statement issued in Srinagar expressed serious concern over the selective focus on statehood, while “overlooking the far more critical demand for restoring Article 370 and Article 35A, which form the constitutional foundation of Jammu and Kashmir’s identity, rights, and autonomy” .
PDP chief spokesperson Mehboob Beg said it was disheartening to see that the National Conference (NC), under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, has not demonstrated urgency or clarity on the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. “The abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in August 2019 was a historic betrayal that struck at the heart of our political and cultural identity. Ignoring this reality while demanding statehood alone dilutes the larger struggle for justice and dignity,” Beg said.
He said the PDP views the current narrative centred only on statehood as one that aligns too closely with the BJP-led Indian government’s agenda, which has selectively promised statehood while remaining silent on special status.
“Statehood without special status is akin to treating the symptoms while ignoring the root cause. The people did not vote for administrative adjustments, they voted for the return of their rights, their land, and their constitutional dignity,” Beg said. “PDP calls on all political parties and the people of Jammu and Kashmir to unite in the struggle for justice, dignity, and constitutional rights. The party remains firm in its resolve to relentlessly pursue the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, irrespective of the Central government’s stance,” he said.
