We’re not enemies of India, but demand return of statehood, Article 370: Farooq Abdullah

Shabir Shah

Keller, Sep 13: National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah, while addressing a large public rally in Keller, Shopian, reaffirmed that his party is not against India, but is steadfast in its demand for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and Article 370.
“We are not enemies of India, but we demand the return of our statehood and Article 370,” Dr. Abdullah declared, as a large crowd cheered in agreement. He emphasized that the revocation of J&K’s special status in August 2019 stripped the region of its autonomy and identity.
Clarifying that this demand is rooted in justice rather than separatism, Dr Abdullah said, “Our call for the restoration of Article 370 and statehood is not about division; it’s about justice within the framework of the Indian Constitution. We belong to this country, but we will not accept being reduced to a Union Territory with diminished rights. Our fight is for dignity and constitutional guarantees.”
He urged the people to stand united in their fight for rights and stressed the importance of participating in the upcoming elections. “Voting is a critical step toward reclaiming our autonomy. We can only achieve our goals through democratic means and dialogue,” Dr. Abdullah added.
The rally saw a large turnout, with supporters from across the constituency expressing their solidarity with the National Conference and its long-standing demand for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and special status.