Arbitrary arrests, harassment of youth, targeted use of bulldozers will only alienate people of J&K: National Conference

The National Conference convened the party's working committee meeting for the first time since they formed the government in Jammu and Kashmir and passed seven resolutions reaffirming their commitment for restoration of special status and statehood in the Union Territory.

The NC meeting led by its president Farooq Abdullah in presence of J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and urged the two countries to uphold peace.

"The Working Committee unanimously reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the restoration of J&K’s special status. The Committee reiterated that this is central to the aspirations and dignity of the people and must be addressed without further delay and we will continue to fight for its restoration," read the resolution. The Working Committee also urged the Government of India to restore full statehood to J&K immediately, as promised on the floor of the Parliament and repeatedly echoed in the public domain and also as committed by the constitution bench of the Supreme Court.


"The Committee welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and called upon both the countries to uphold peace and explore long-lasting, peaceful solutions to end violence," read the NC resolution. The NC also cautioned the GoI that arbitrary arrests, harassment of youth, targeted use of bulldozers and intimidation of legitimate media voices will only alienate the very people who have stood firmly for peace and against violence.

The Working Committee strongly condemned the horrific Baisaran attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent individuals, including a young Kashmiri, Syed Adil Hussain Shah. It also denounced the continued cross-border shelling that took the lives of 23 innocent civilians.

The NC working committee appreciated the spontaneous and overwhelming support of the people of J&K in unequivocally condemning the Baisaran attack. It also acknowledged the compassion and hospitality extended to tourists who found themselves stranded in the Valley during challenging circumstances. "GoI should recognise and respect this powerful expression of solidarity and not squander the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity extended by the people of J&K," read the resolution.

The NC expressed serious concern over the reports of harassment faced by students, traders, and residents from J&K in various parts of the country. "It strongly condemned their selective targeting in the aftermath of recent events and called upon all state governments to ensure the safety, dignity, and protection of the lives and property of all people from J&K living or working in other parts of India," NC members said. They also reiterated the party’s unwavering commitment to the promises made in its manifesto.