Restoration of Article 370 remains core demand, not just IIOJK statehood: Ruhullah Mehdi
Srinagar: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, senior National Conference leader and Indian parliament member from Srinagar, Agha Ruhullah Mehdi, has reiterated that the restoration of Article 370 remains his primary demand, asserting that the political struggle should go beyond the demand for statehood.
According to Kashmir Media Service, speaking to reporters in Pulwama, Ruhullah Mehdi said he would participate in the National Conference’s proposed protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi but stressed that the one-day demonstration alone wound not address the aspiration and concerns of the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He called for a sustained and organised movement, arguing that the demand must go beyond statehood to include restoration of constitutional protections that existed before 2019.
He said a single protest would not suffice and underlined the need for a continuous political campaign reflecting broader concerns, including rights and protections of the people of Kashmir.
Mehdi also flagged issues faced by the younger generation in the post-2019 period, saying justice is essential for lasting peace.
Expressing concern over land rights, employment opportunities and reservation policies, he said local residents were increasingly being deprived of their rightful share. Referring to restrictions affecting agriculture and livelihoods in rural areas, including Pulwama, he termed the situation a manifestation of systemic injustice.
Reaffirming his position, Ruhullah Mehdi said permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir could only be secured through justice, rather than through symbolic political initiatives.
