Chief Spokesperson says claims of fresh elections for statehood are misleading, targeting those benefiting from the current dual power system
Imran Naikoo
Srinagar, 23 June : National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, has strongly reacted to reports suggesting terms and conditions for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, including holding fresh elections.
Speaking to Gulistan News, Sadiq said, “We may have differences with other political parties on many issues, but when it comes to statehood, all parties including PDP, Congress, People’s Conference and even BJP are united. Statehood is the rightful claim of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and it must be restored.”
Indirectly targeting the Lieutenant Governor, he stated, “Those enjoying dual power structures are uncomfortable with the idea of statehood being restored. They are trying to create confusion by floating narratives about fresh elections under statehood, which is completely unnecessary.”
Sadiq also pointed to precedents from other regions, saying, “If fresh elections were necessary, the Supreme Court or the Prime Minister would have clearly stated so. The Prime Minister himself said elections would be followed by the restoration of statehood. Even in Himachal Pradesh, statehood was restored without holding fresh elections.”
He further added, “Statehood is crucial for resolving the challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir. Without statehood, governance remains ineffective, and people continue to suffer. Delays in fulfilling this promise are unjustified.”
Pertinently, reports have surfaced suggesting that the Centre might restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir but with certain terms and conditions, including holding fresh elections under the new state structure.
