New Delhi, 20 July (H.S.): Leaders of the ruling National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday, demanding the restoration of full statehood for the Union Territory. The protest was led by party president Farooq Abdullah.

Speaking to reporters after the demonstration, Farooq Abdullah said that the gathering was aimed at reminding Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of their commitments made to Parliament, the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the Supreme Court.

“We have gathered here to remind the Prime Minister and the Home Minister of the promises made to Parliament, the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the Supreme Court. We are fighting for the restoration of full statehood for our state and have come here to remind them of their commitment,” Abdullah said.

It may be noted that after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised, with Ladakh separated and both regions being converted into separate Union Territories.

Deputy Chief Minister and National Conference leader Surinder Choudhary said it was unfortunate that the party had to come to Delhi to protest for the restoration of statehood.

He said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, but two years had passed since an elected government was formed in the Union Territory.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar