Srinagar, 25 Sept (KNS) : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Friday welcomed the resolution moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Legislative Assembly seeking restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and expressed hope that the Union government will respect the will of the people of J&K.

In a statement issued, The party said that the manner in which the resolution is supported or opposed will also make it clear who stands for restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and who stands against it.

In a joint statement, Additional General Secretaries of the party, Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan and Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, said that the Central Government has reneged on its commitment to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir immediately after the elections. They said that the National Conference has repeatedly raised the issue with the Central Government, highlighted the need for restoration of statehood in both Houses of Parliament, reiterated the demand through public meetings and gatherings, and also held protests.

They said that under these circumstances, moving a resolution on restoration of statehood in the Legislative Assembly had become imperative and the resolution now presents an opportunity for all members of the House to make their position clear on this long-standing constitutional and democratic right of Jammu and Kashmir. They said the resolution will make it clear who supports restoring Jammu and Kashmir to full statehood and who opposes it.

The leaders said that the uproar created by BJP members in the the House immediately after the resolution was moved has already made the party’s position apparent.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThey said the disruption by BJP members reflects their discomfiture and frustration. They added that the BJP is not only opposing restoration of statehood, but its conduct also raises questions about its attitude towards democratic institutions and the popular mandate.

The leaders said that the reference in the resolution to the resolutions passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on June 26, 2000, and November 6, 2024, reflects the National Conference’s consistent position and commitment towards restoration of the special position and constitutional rights of Jammu and Kashmir.

They said that neither the resolution passed in 2000 was anti-national, nor was the 2024 resolution anti-national, and the resolution moved today is neither unconstitutional nor contrary to law. They said New Delhi had made a commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir that “Sky is the Limit,” and that through these resolutions the National Conference has not sought anything beyond the Constitution of India, but has reiterated the demand for restoration of rights and commitments that are provided for within the constitutional framework.

They said restoration of statehood is not a favour to anyone, but a democratic right of the people and an essential step to enable the elected government to function effectively.(KNS)