NC Working Committee Calls for Restoration of IIOJK’s Special Status and Statehood

As tensions rise along the Line of Control, the National Conference (NC) has reaffirmed its demand for the restoration of IIOJK’s special status, calling it essential for regional peace and the people’s aspirations.

The National Conference Working Committee convened in Srinagar to assess the evolving situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) following renewed tensions at the Line of Control (LoC) due to Indian military actions against Pakistan.

The high-level meeting, held at the party’s headquarters Nawa-i-Subh, was chaired by NC President Farooq Abdullah. Party Vice President and puppet chief minister Omar Abdullah was also in attendance.

During the session, the committee unanimously adopted seven key resolutions. A primary resolution strongly advocated for the restoration of IIOJK’s special status, asserting that it remains vital to the political and emotional identity of the region’s people.

Another major resolution called upon the Indian government to immediately reinstate full statehood to IIOJK, stripped in 2019. The party argued that restoration of both statehood and special status is necessary to rebuild trust and political stability.

The NC welcomed the recent India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement and urged both sides to maintain the truce. It called for a long-term dialogue process between the two nuclear-armed neighbors to resolve outstanding issues and reduce the threat of further violence.

The party reiterated its commitment to peaceful, democratic, and constitutional methods in seeking justice and rights for the people of the region. It reaffirmed loyalty to its manifesto and its role in representing Kashmiri voices through non-violent political means.

One resolution condemned the rising trend of arbitrary arrests, harassment of youth, the demolition of homes using bulldozers, and tightening restrictions on media. It warned that such tactics could further alienate the public, especially the younger generation.

The NC also expressed deep concern over increasing reports of harassment faced by Kashmiri students, traders, and residents across India. It appealed to all state governments in India to safeguard the rights, dignity, and security of Kashmiris residing outside the region.

The party emphasized that it will continue to raise these issues at all appropriate national and international forums, ensuring that the concerns of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir are not ignored.

As the political climate in the region remains tense, the National Conference has positioned itself as a voice of reason, demanding the restoration of rights, dignity, and democratic space for Kashmiris.