Former Jammu Kashmir interlocutor Radha Kumar expressed surprise over criticism from various political parties regarding the Legislative Assembly’s resolution on special status.
Kumar emphasized that now is the right time for like-minded parties to form a consensus and initiate dialogue with national opposition parties.
“Instead of criticizing each other, J-K parties should unite and engage with both the Centre and opposition parties,” Kumar told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.
She highlighted statehood as the primary demand, urging parties to join forces and pressure the central government.
Kumar also emphasized the importance of addressing the erosion of federal powers, calling on opposition parties to speak out on this issue. By forming a united front, J-K parties can effectively advocate for their concerns.
While replying to a question, Radha Kumar cast doubt on the Centre’s plans for restoring full statehood to Jammu Kashmir, questioning whether it will happen all at once or in phases.
Tushar Mehta, she said, representing the government, had hinted at a phased approach in the Supreme Court. She urged J&K parties to unite, putting differences aside, and seek opposition support to achieve full statehood. [KNT]