SRINAGAR, Oct 14: Waheed Para, a leader from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), expressed that the revocation of President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir marks the start of efforts to restore what the people have lost over the past 6-7 years. He emphasized that the mandate given by the people of Kashmir centers on restoring their dignity and protecting their identity.
Speaking to the media, Para highlighted that the people have placed significant trust in the National Conference (NC), hoping the party will honor its commitments. “The people of Kashmir have voted for dignity, the restoration of Article 370, statehood, and to reclaim the special status that was taken from them on August 5, 2019,” Para said. He expressed hope that this moment would lead to a process of restoring what had been lost. “This vote is not just about ending Presidential rule; it’s about regaining our dignity and identity. We trust the incoming government will fulfill the promises they made to the people,” he added.
The President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir was officially lifted on Sunday, clearing the way for a newly elected government following the recently concluded assembly elections in the Union Territory. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a gazette notification confirming the development.
This comes after National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah met with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday, where he staked a claim for forming the government. Abdullah presented letters of support from the recently concluded elections. Following the meeting, Abdullah said that the swearing-in ceremony might take place by Tuesday (October 15) or Wednesday (October 16), depending on how quickly the paperwork is completed.
NC President Farooq Abdullah emphasized that restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would be the top priority of the new government. The Congress party also formally extended its support to the National Conference on Friday, submitting an official letter of endorsement.
The alliance between the National Conference, Congress, and support from independents and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has paved the way for government formation in Jammu and Kashmir. This will be the first elected government in the region since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the state into two Union Territories in 2019.
The assembly elections, held in three phases, concluded with the National Conference-Congress alliance securing 48 out of 90 seats, with the NC winning 42 seats and Congress securing six.