Restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a democratic right of its people, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s advisor Nasir Aslam Wani said on Saturday. He called for the mandate received through elections to be respected.
Addressing a gathering in Kupwara after hoisting the national flag for India’s Independence Day, Wani said restoring statehood was not merely a political demand but an aspiration rooted in the democratic mandate of the people.
“The mandate received through elections must be respected and honoured,” Wani said.
He said the elected government was committed to fulfilling the aspirations of the people and strengthening democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised into two federally administered territories in 2019, when the Union government also revoked the region’s special constitutional status. Political parties in the region have since pressed for the restoration of statehood.
The advisor also highlighted development, transparency and good governance, saying the government would continue efforts to transform Kupwara into a model district by improving public services and infrastructure.
The Independence Day gathering saw participation from local residents, with speakers highlighting aspirations for peace, development, good governance and the restoration of statehood.
