PDP Urges Article 370 Restoration as a Matter of Kashmiri Identity and Dignity

“We seek the restoration of Article 370 in its original, pristine spirit,” PDP leader stated.

Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra, a legislator from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized that the demand to restore Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir transcends political rivalry, aiming to uphold the dignity and identity of the region. His remarks came during the inaugural session of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, the first meeting of its kind in a decade, marking a significant moment in the territory’s political landscape.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Parra called for the reinstatement of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir until it was revoked by the Indian Parliament on August 5, 2019. He stressed that the move to restore the Article is deeply connected to the regional identity and self-respect of the Kashmiri people, not just a political stance. “We seek the restoration of Article 370 in its original, pristine spirit,” Parra stated, reflecting a shared sentiment within the community.

Parra highlighted the public’s trust in the current government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, adding that it reinforced their commitment to the resolution. “The people’s sentiments have given confidence to this government, especially to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah,” he noted, urging leaders to prioritize Article 370 above all other matters.

Addressing the Speaker, Parra requested that the resolution to restore Article 370 be placed on the assembly’s agenda for the ongoing four-day session. “We have humbly requested the Speaker to make this resolution part of the session’s business,” he said, also appealing for the support of the National Conference on the matter.

Parra further stressed that while issues like infrastructure and employment are important, the resolution for Article 370 should be the assembly’s top priority, given its direct link to the region’s dignity. His call highlights the enduring importance of Article 370 to the identity and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, casting it as a non-negotiable issue that transcends political lines.