Anantnag, June 9: MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday said he would take part in the National Conference’s planned protest at Jantar Mantar, but stressed his main demand is restoring Article 370, not merely statehood.
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Speaking to reporters in Pulwama, Ruhullah said he would “definitely” participate but stressed that the struggle should not be confined to a one-day political event.
He called for a sustained and organised movement, arguing that the demand must go beyond statehood to include restoration of constitutional protections that existed before 2019.
He said a single protest would not suffice and underlined the need for a continuous political campaign reflecting broader concerns, including rights and protections of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The MP also flagged issues faced by the younger generation in the post-2019 period, saying justice is essential for lasting peace.
Raising concerns over land rights, jobs and reservation policies, he alleged that locals were being deprived of their due share. Citing examples from rural areas, including Pulwama, he said restrictions affecting agriculture and livelihoods point to “systemic injustice”.
Ruhullah said key political and administrative commitments remain unfulfilled and added that while improved governance could ease tensions, unresolved issues continue to fuel public dissatisfaction.
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Reiterating his stand, he said “permanent peace” can only be achieved through “justice”, not symbolic measures—(KNO)
