NC fighting for constitutional guarantee, not just statehood: Aga Ruhullah

Srinagar, June 28: National Conference leader and Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi said the party’s fight is for the constitutional guarantee that was taken away in 2019 and urged party not to forget this cause.

Speaking to media persons, Mehdi said, “Our fight is not just for statehood. Our fight is for the constitutional guarantee that was snatched from us on 5th August 2019. We should not forget our fight.”

He said the restoration of Article 370 remains the central issue. “Our fight is for the guarantee of the status of 370, for the status that was given to us by the Instrument of Accession. Our fight is to reverse the decisions that were taken in August 2019,” he added.

Commenting on the Ashura procession, Mehdi said he had earlier spoken about how such religious events might be used for propaganda. “The procession was used for propaganda. You must have seen in Parliament how Amit Shah used it. He said the permission for the Muharram procession was not available earlier, and this time it was granted,” Mehdi said.

He accused the Union Home Minister of trying to create divisions. “He tried to divide Shia and Sunni. He said the Sunni administration earlier prevented the procession. He equated the Muharram procession with cinema and liquor shops as indicators of normalcy,” he said.

According to KNS, Mehdi said this was an attempt to create a false narrative of normalcy after the abrogation of Article 370. “If they were serious about religious freedom, they would have ensured free access to Jama Masjid and allowed people to offer prayers freely,” he added.

Responding to questions about statehood and recent statements by other National Conference leaders, he said, “Farooq Abdullah has said they want to knock on the doors of the Supreme Court. Omar Abdullah is also ready to step down if required. But I repeat, our fight is not limited to statehood.”

He said the party would consider approaching the court, depending on the developments in Parliament. “If the bill is presented, we will talk about it. But I will remind again, our fight is beyond that. Our fight is for the constitutional guarantee,” he said.

Mehdi said he was waiting for a decision from the law department regarding a policy affecting students. “The more it gets delayed, the more students suffer. Exams are being held, so it should be implemented soon.”

He also congratulated the faculty and students of the Exceptional Academy. “Some students associated with the academy qualified NEET and Civil Services exams. I thank the faculty for their efforts and hope these students will contribute to society.”(KNS).