Modi promises Jammu and Kashmir statehood return in Srinagar visit
World
APHC states its rejection of anti-Kashmir agendas of BJP-led Hindutva government
(Web Desk) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in Srinagar on Thursday that Jammu and Kashmir would soon regain its statehood, amidst ongoing tensions over the constitutional autonomy of the disputed region and multiple demands for rollback.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference has called for a complete shutdown in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir today (Friday) to protest Modi's visit to the territory.
The former BJP-led government, through a presidential decree in August 2019, revoked Article 370, stripping the state of its autonomy, a move that sparked widespread denunciation.
Article 370 of the Indian constitution prevents Indians from outside the state from permanently settling, buying land, holding local government jobs and securing education scholarships.
The disputed territory has been a point of contention between India and Pakistan since 1947 and remains one of the oldest disputes in the UN Security Council.
Modi, who arrived in Srinagar for a two-day visit on Thursday evening, suggested that Jammu and Kashmir would soon regain its statehood with an elected assembly, according to a report by NDTV.
The last assembly election was held in 2014, and the state has been under President's Rule for nearly six years.
During his address at an event, Modi also referenced recent militant attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising India's commitment to "teaching a lesson to the enemies of peace".
"The day will soon come when Jammu and Kashmir, as a state, will create a better future for itself."
The Indian prime minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 84 projects in infrastructure, education, and health sectors.
Nevertheless, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference stated its rejection of all anti-Kashmir agendas of the BJP-led Hindutva government of India.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the shutdown call was announced by APHC spokesperson Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas in Srinagar.
The shutdown is intended to protest India's illegal occupation and to reiterate the persistent demand for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute to foster regional peace.
Additionally, the strike opposes ongoing atrocities, illegal detentions, the revocation of Kashmiris' political rights including Articles 370 and 35A, dismissals of Kashmiri government employees, and property seizures, the spokesman added.
The APHC has urged the people of IIOJK to observe the shutdown and protest against the oppressive policies of the Indian government.
