Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir** - In a bold and defiant statement, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has vowed to prioritize the reversal of the abrogation of Article 370 if his party is re-elected in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) assembly elections. The former Chief Minister made these remarks during a public address, underscoring his party’s unwavering stance against the controversial decision made by the Indian government on August 5, 2019.
Omar Abdullah asserted that the first order of business for a newly-elected J&K assembly would be to pass a resolution against the abrogation of Article 370, which previously granted special autonomy to the region. “We will tell the entire world that the people of Jammu and Kashmir don't agree with what happened to us on 5th August 2019,” Abdullah declared, emphasizing that the sentiments of the people of J&K had been ignored in the abrupt constitutional change.
Article 370 had long been a cornerstone of J&K’s relationship with the rest of India, providing the region with a unique status that allowed it to have its own constitution and autonomy over internal matters, except in the areas of defense, foreign affairs, finance, and communications. The revocation of this article by the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was met with widespread protests and a significant security crackdown in the region.
Abdullah's comments reflect the deep-seated resentment that remains within certain sections of J&K's population, particularly among those who believe that the abrogation of Article 370 was an imposition against the will of the people. “We will start undoing what was done to us,” Abdullah said, signaling his party's commitment to restoring the region’s former status and autonomy, despite the significant legal and political challenges that such an endeavor would entail.
The National Conference, under the leadership of Abdullah and his father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, has consistently opposed the revocation of Article 370 and has been vocal about seeking its restoration. However, the path to achieving this goal remains uncertain, given the strong stance of the central government and the Supreme Court’s ongoing consideration of multiple petitions challenging the abrogation.
Abdullah’s latest statements are expected to galvanize his party's base ahead of the elections, while also drawing sharp reactions from political opponents, particularly the BJP, which has maintained that the abrogation of Article 370 was necessary for the full integration of J&K with India.
As the region prepares for its first assembly elections since the abrogation, Abdullah’s pledge sets the stage for what promises to be a highly contentious and closely watched political battle in Jammu and Kashmir. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the region's future and its relationship with the rest of India.
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