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Statehood –  Members of the National Conference (NC) on Tuesday held a sit-in protest outside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, calling for the restoration of statehood and raising concerns over the alleged mistreatment of Kashmiris in different parts of the country.

The demonstration took place shortly before the Assembly session began. NC legislators gathered near the complex, holding placards that pressed for the return of statehood and constitutional safeguards. Several signs also highlighted concerns about the safety and dignity of residents from the Union Territory who live or work outside Jammu and Kashmir.

Protest Held Ahead of Assembly Session

The lawmakers staged the protest as a mark of collective dissent, chanting slogans and urging the government to act on earlier assurances. According to party leaders, the demonstration was meant to underline long-standing demands that, they say, remain unfulfilled despite repeated commitments.

Minister Satish Sharma, speaking to reporters during the protest, said the sit-in was intended to peacefully draw attention to the demand for restoring statehood. He added that the issue remains central to the party’s political agenda and reflects public sentiment across the region.

National Conference Leaders Stress Unity

NC MLA Tanvir Sadiq said the protest saw participation from all party members present in the Assembly. He emphasized that the restoration of statehood was not a new demand but one rooted in assurances made in the past.

Sadiq told reporters that the time had come for these promises to be honored. He also used the occasion to highlight what he described as a troubling pattern of harassment faced by Kashmiris outside the Union Territory.

Appeal for Protection of Kashmiris Outside the Region

Raising concerns over recent incidents, Sadiq appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene. He urged the central leadership to direct state governments to ensure the safety and protection of Kashmiris living or working in other parts of India.

According to NC leaders, such incidents not only cause physical harm but also create fear and insecurity among ordinary citizens who travel for education, work, or trade.

Issues Raised Inside the Assembly

After the Assembly proceedings resumed, the matter was also taken up inside the House. NC MLA Mubarak Gul formally raised the issue of alleged harassment during the session. He was joined by PDP MLA Wahid-ur-Rehman Para, who echoed similar concerns and called for a serious discussion on the matter.

Both lawmakers stressed the need for institutional mechanisms to prevent such incidents and to ensure accountability when complaints are reported.

Recent Incident in Uttarakhand Cited

During the discussion, reference was made to a recent incident in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district. An 18-year-old Kashmiri youth reportedly suffered serious injuries after being allegedly attacked by a group of people while selling shawls on January 28.

The incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by Kashmiri traders who travel to other states for seasonal business. Lawmakers said such cases underline the urgency of stronger protective measures.

Wider Concerns Over Similar Reports

In addition to the Dehradun case, there have been reports of Kashmiri shawl sellers facing harassment in other states as well. While details vary, political leaders argue that the recurring nature of these complaints points to a broader issue that requires coordinated action.

NC leaders reiterated that their protest was aimed at seeking constitutional restoration and ensuring the safety of citizens, rather than creating confrontation. They maintained that peaceful dialogue and timely intervention are essential to address both political and social concerns linked to Jammu and Kashmir.