CPI(M) leader and Kulgam MLA Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami on Thursday praised National Conference founder Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah for implementing historic land reforms, saying these reforms uplifted the poorest sections of society and transformed the lives of farmers.
Tarigami demanded that Sheikh Abdullah’s birth anniversary continue to be observed as a public holiday, stating, “Today, those calling for the removal of this holiday forget that it was Sheikh Abdullah who gave dignity to the most marginalized people.”
Tarigami made these remarks during the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Lieutenant Governor’s address in the Assembly. Emphasizing the need to safeguard the constitutional and democratic rights of the people, he called for the restoration of the region’s original constitutional status.
Responding to remarks made by BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma regarding the July 13, 1931 martyrs, Tarigami said, “It is unfortunate that senior leaders are making such comments. Learning history is crucial.”
Recalling history, Tarigami said the Dogra rule was established through the Treaty of Amritsar in 1846, when the region was sold by British colonial rulers— the same empire that freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh resisted.
Criticizing the BJP for undermining historical legacies, he questioned the separation of Ladakh. “Why was Ladakh separated? When you were once happy with Kashmir, what has changed now?” he asked.
Tarigami also condemned the downgrading of the region from a state to a union territory. “Show me another example where a full-fledged state has been reduced to a union territory. How can a nominated governor represent the aspirations of the people?” he asked.
Highlighting the legacy of communal harmony, Tarigami said, “When the rest of the country was burning with communal violence, Kashmir remained a cradle of peace.”
Turning to former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Tarigami remarked, “The people know the reality. Even a chief minister here cannot transfer a single official. But remember, the people are not asking for charity. They are demanding their rights and dignity.”