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‘NC’s fight is for constitutional guarantees, not just statehood’: says Ruhullah Mehdi

by News Desk

National Conference leader and Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday reaffirmed that the party’s central struggle remains the restoration of Jammu Kashmir’s constitutional status that was revoked on August 5, 2019. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mehdi made it clear that the demand for statehood alone does not address the core grievance of the people.

“Our fight is not just for statehood,” he said. “Our fight is for the constitutional guarantees that were snatched from us in 2019. We must not forget what we are really fighting for.”

Referring to the Instrument of Accession, Mehdi said the demand for restoring Article 370 is not merely symbolic, but grounded in the original constitutional relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the Union of India. “We seek to reverse the decisions that were taken on August 5,” he said.

Mehdi also criticised the Union government over the recent Ashura procession in Srinagar, alleging it was used for political propaganda. “You must have seen how Amit Shah used it in Parliament, claiming that earlier it was not allowed and now it has been permitted,” Mehdi said. He accused the Home Minister of trying to sow divisions between Shia and Sunni Muslims for political gain.

He further slammed the government’s projection of normalcy, calling it superficial. “He equated the Muharram procession with cinema halls and liquor shops as signs of peace. If they truly respected religious freedom, they would allow full access to Jama Masjid as well,” he said, referring to continued restrictions at the historic mosque.

On the legal front, Mehdi said the party may approach the Supreme Court if necessary. “If a bill is tabled in Parliament, we will deliberate. But I repeat, our fight goes beyond any legislative process. It is about restoring the constitutional promise made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

Reacting to recent statements by NC leaders Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, Mehdi acknowledged their positions but reiterated his focus. “Farooq sahib has said we must go to court, and Omar sahib has said he is ready to resign if needed. But again, our fight is not limited to statehood alone.”