Congress Supports National Conference's Push for Jammu and Kashmir Statehood

New Delhi, India Jul 17, 2026 ALN: Statehood people’s issue, not party matter: Mir

Srinagar: AICC General Secretary and Jammu & Kashmir Congress in-charge Ghulam Ahmad Mir on Thursday stated that the Congress will participate in the National Conference’s proposed protest at Jantar Mantar, asserting that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a people’s issue and not confined to any political party. The statement comes at a time when the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir has been significantly altered following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which had granted special status to the region.

Speaking to reporters, Mir emphasized that the Congress has consistently opposed the decisions made on August 5, 2019, and has been advocating for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional rights and statehood at every available forum. This opposition is rooted in a belief that the changes imposed by the central government disregarded the historical context and the aspirations of the local populace. The abrogation of Article 370 led to widespread discontent, with many residents feeling that their identity and autonomy were under threat.

He noted that the party had opted not to seek ministerial positions despite having the opportunity, believing instead that the people’s mandate was for the restoration of statehood and powers to the elected government. “There is no point in becoming ministers when there are no real powers,” he stated, highlighting a significant ideological stance within the Congress that prioritizes the restoration of democratic processes over participation in a government that lacks substantive authority.

Referring to the National Conference’s planned protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20, Mir expressed the Congress's support for the initiative and welcomed the call for participation. The protest is expected to draw attention to the ongoing demands for statehood and the restoration of local governance, which many believe are essential for the political stability and development of the region.

He urged all political parties to rise above their differences and join the protest, emphasizing that ego should not hinder a common cause. “Everyone should unite and raise a common voice for the restoration of statehood,” he said, reflecting a call for political unity among various factions in Jammu and Kashmir. This appeal for solidarity underscores the critical nature of the statehood issue, which transcends party lines and resonates with a broad spectrum of the population.

Mir also expressed support for Ladakh-based activist Sonam Wangchuk’s peaceful agitation, stating that the people of Ladakh have pursued their demands through democratic means without resorting to violence. Wangchuk, a prominent figure in the region, has been advocating for the rights and recognition of Ladakhis following its separation from Jammu and Kashmir and its designation as a Union Territory. Mir's endorsement of Wangchuk's approach highlights the importance of non-violent protest in the region's socio-political discourse.

He affirmed that anyone working peacefully for the welfare of the people deserves support, reinforcing the notion that the struggle for statehood is not just a political battle but a fight for the rights and dignity of the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. This perspective aligns with broader movements across India where citizens are increasingly vocal about their rights and representation.

He announced that the Jammu and Kashmir Congress will organize a major “Hamari Riyasat, Hamara Haq” program in Jammu on July 19, expecting participation from party workers and people across the Union Territory. The phrase translates to "Our State, Our Right," symbolizing the collective demand for the restoration of statehood. This initiative is indicative of the Congress's strategy to mobilize grassroots support and engage directly with the public on issues that affect their daily lives.

Selected party representatives will subsequently join the Jantar Mantar protest in New Delhi on July 20. The choice of Jantar Mantar as the protest venue is significant, as it is a traditional site for demonstrations and a space where various groups from across India have gathered to voice their concerns to the central government. This move reflects an effort to elevate the issue of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood to the national stage, seeking to garner wider attention and support.

The call for statehood restoration in Jammu and Kashmir is not merely a political maneuver; it encapsulates deeper aspirations for autonomy, governance, and identity among the region's populace. The abrogation of Article 370 has led to significant changes in the political landscape, and the demand for statehood has been a rallying point for many political parties and civil society groups in the region.

The implications of restoring statehood are profound. It would not only reinstate local governance but also potentially empower the people of Jammu and Kashmir to make decisions that directly affect their lives. The restoration of statehood could lead to a more stable political environment, fostering development and reconciliation in a region that has experienced decades of conflict and unrest.

Furthermore, the participation of multiple political parties in the protest could signify a broader consensus on the issue, which may pressure the central government to reconsider its stance on Jammu and Kashmir. The current political climate suggests that there is an increasing recognition among various stakeholders that the aspirations of the people must be addressed to ensure long-term peace and stability in the region.

As the protest date approaches, the eyes of the nation will be on Jammu and Kashmir, with many hoping that this collective effort will lead to meaningful dialogue and action regarding the future of the region. The outcome of these protests and the response from the central government could set the tone for future political negotiations and the trajectory of governance in Jammu and Kashmir.