Discussion on Article 370 Can’t Be Silenced, Governments Keep on Changing: Omar Abdullah
Jammu, Mar 6, KNT: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday reaffirmed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have every right to discuss Article 370, despite attempts to suppress the debate. He asserted that his party would not be intimidated or silenced and would persist in its struggle for the rights and dignity of the region.
Speaking in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly during the motion of thanks on Lt Governor Manoj Sinha’s address, Abdullah lamented the downgrading of J&K from a state to a Union Territory, calling it a loss of dignity. “This fight for statehood is not personal but in the interest of J&K. Our aspirations can only be fulfilled when we regain our statehood,” he said.
Addressing the demand raised by Peoples Conference legislator Sajad Gani Lone for a resolution on statehood within the House, Abdullah explained that no such resolution was tabled deliberately, as it was evident that all members support the demand. He urged those willing to move a resolution to go ahead, assuring full support.
Abdullah asserted that the fight for statehood is rooted in truth, justice, and law and that its restoration would bring much-needed relief to the people. “Some people are trying to intimidate and threaten us, but we will not be silenced. Our fight for people’s rights, dignity, and development will continue,” he said, without naming those allegedly trying to suppress National Conference legislators.
Taking a dig at Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, Abdullah dismissed his remark that discussing Article 370 was a waste of time. He pointed out that BJP members themselves have repeatedly raised the issue.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling on the abrogation of Article 370, Abdullah said, “Court decisions can be reviewed, and governments change. You believe Article 370 will not return, and we believe it will. Let’s see what the future holds.”
He concluded by asserting that no one can take away the right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to discuss the issue. [KNT]
