NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 31(NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (JKPDP), led by Party President Mehbooba Mufti, reiterated its position that October 31 is not a day of celebration for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The party rejects this date as the “Foundation Day” of the Union Territory, stating that it does not reflect the will and aspirations of the people.
Mehbooba Mufti said that the imposition of Union Territory status on Jammu & Kashmir was an act of disenfranchisement.
“The conversion of our state into a Union Territory, without the consent of its people, is not a symbol of development but a removal of our statehood and special status,” she said.
The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, removed constitutional safeguards that protected the identity and rights of Jammu & Kashmir. “These articles were essential to our autonomy and governance. The removal of these provisions stripped away our ability to govern ourselves and protect our resources,” she added.
The JKPDP contends that the Union Territory status has rendered the people of Jammu & Kashmir voiceless in local affairs.
Mehbooba Mufti stated that this is not the development the government claims, but a disenfranchisement that deprives citizens of their rights and self-determination. “UT Day is not a celebration of progress. For us, it is a reminder of the day we lost our identity and the right to shape our future,” she said. (News Vibes of India)
