Restoration of statehood is democratic right of J&K people, not favour: Gupta
19/05/2026
Jammu, May 18: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President Rattan Lal Gupta on Monday said restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a democratic right of the people and not a favour.
Addressing a one-day conference of party functionaries and workers of District Udhampur Urban, chaired by District President Sunil Verma, Gupta alleged that the BJP's biggest betrayal was downgrading the erstwhile state into a Union Territory.
"The people of Jammu and Kashmir were deprived of their democratic and constitutional rights without their consent. Statehood was taken away and despite repeated assurances, its restoration remains pending," he said.
Gupta asserted that a full-fledged state with an elected government accountable to people is essential for protecting employment opportunities, land rights, business interests and democratic representation.
He said the National Conference has consistently advocated restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees, adding that a government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah could ensure transparent governance, employment generation and protection of youth interests.
Addressing the gathering, Akash Verma, Additional Spokesperson, Jammu, said growing support among youth for the National Conference reflected aspirations for employment, accountability and democratic empowerment.
Sunil Verma urged party workers to strengthen organisational activities ahead of upcoming Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections.
Former minister and Zonal President Udhampur-Reasi Zone Abdul Gani Malik, Provincial Secretary Pardeep Bali and Vice President Central Zone Rakesh Singh Raka also addressed the conference, stating that the party remains committed to equitable development, peace, secularism and democracy.
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