JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The National Conference (NC) has decided to take the path of agitation to press its demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. During a crucial meeting held at the Dachigam National Park in Srinagar—presided over by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah—the party announced plans to march to Delhi and stage a protest outside Parliament on the very first day of the Monsoon Session.
The meeting, which lasted for nearly seven hours, was attended by three NC Members of Parliament (MPs), 41 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and six independent legislators. Through this meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah sought to convey a message of unity within the party ranks. This gathering is considered highly significant amidst recent questions being raised regarding internal party dissent, the stability of the government, and growing discontent among the legislators.
The meeting featured a detailed discussion on the issue of restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Party leaders believe that the current juncture is the most opportune time to build pressure regarding this demand. In line with this strategy, preparations are underway to stage a massive protest in Delhi on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, involving both MPs and MLAs.
The issue of restoring the state’s special status was also raised during the meeting; this has long been a key component of the National Conference’s electoral pledges. The legislators urged the Chief Minister to intensify pressure on the Central Government in this regard. Additionally, the issue of the ban on liquor sales was discussed. According to party sources, several legislators expressed their apprehension to the Chief Minister that this issue could potentially cause political damage to the party.
The choice of Dachigam as the venue for the meeting also became a subject of political debate. The meeting was originally scheduled to take place at the Chief Minister’s official residence on Gupkar Road, but the venue was shifted to Dachigam National Park at the very last minute. The opposition subsequently seized upon this move to target both the government and the NC.
Speaking after the meeting, NC spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq stated that the party is set to launch an agitation to secure the restoration of statehood, and that a demonstration—involving both MPs and MLAs—will be staged in Delhi on the first day of the Monsoon Session. Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma stated that the restoration of statehood is on the BJP’s agenda and will be reinstated at an appropriate time. He added that the Central Government must first be assured of lasting peace and stability within the region.
On the other hand, People’s Conference Chairman Sajjad Gani Lone and PDP leader Iltija Mufti took a jibe at the government and the National Conference, raising several questions regarding the meeting held at Dachigam.
For now, following the Dachigam meeting, one thing has become clear: the National Conference is now gearing up to take its political struggle for the demand of full statehood from the streets to the Parliament. In the upcoming Monsoon Session, this issue could emerge as the central focal point of Jammu and Kashmir’s politics.
