SRINAGAR, March 31: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has voiced significant concern over the prolonged delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that this postponement is progressively eroding public confidence in democratic institutions and governance.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Abdullah expressed his views while interacting with party functionaries in Srinagar. He described the extended deferral of this constitutional right as “deeply unfortunate.” The National Conference chief emphasized that the restoration of full statehood, a promise long assured by the Government of India, is not merely a concession but a fundamental entitlement for the region’s populace. He noted that its continued withholding has led to unfulfilled aspirations among the people.
Abdullah further stated that such prolonged delays foster a growing sense of disenchantment within the population. He underscored the urgent necessity for governance that is both credible and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens. The former chief minister urged party workers and office-bearers to maintain active engagement with the public, ensuring their concerns are amplified and advocating for the restoration of dignity, democratic rights, and political empowerment.
Reaffirming the National Conference’s consistent position on the matter, Abdullah reiterated the party’s commitment to pursuing full statehood through peaceful and democratic advocacy. He expressed a resolve to help restore faith in the political process for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the crucial role of statehood in ensuring representative governance and citizen participation.
The Chenab Times News Desk