Muzzafar Shah deeply anguished by J&K Cabinet for sidestepping resolution on Article-370
Statehood falls short of addressing J&K’s rightful demand for pre-Aug, 2019 position
Srinagar, Oct 18: Awami National Conference Senior Vice President Muzzafar Shah expressed deep pain and anguish today over the recent resolution on statehood passed by the newly constituted J&K Cabinet.
In a statement issued here, Shah underscored that the Cabinet’s focus should have been on passing a resolution for the restoration of J&K’s special status, the reinstatement of Article 370 and 35A along with scrutinizing the contents of the J&K Reorganization Act, rather than merely addressing statehood.
“The mandate of the people was unequivocal—they seek the restoration of their constitutional rights, which were unjustly, unilaterally, and unconstitutionally stripped away on August 5, 2019. This omission by the Cabinet is deeply concerning, and it is imperative that they clarify their position,” Shah remarked.
Shah stressed that it is both the prerogative and responsibility of the Chief Justice of India to ensure the restoration of full statehood to J&K, as he has already assured the same during the court hearings, offering a firm stance after discussions with the Solicitor General. “The people of J&K are eagerly awaiting this crucial step,” he added.
While acknowledging the formation of the new Cabinet as a positive development and extending his best wishes, Shah reiterated that the government must prioritize the fulfillment of the promises made to the people, addressing the most pressing issues without fear or hesitation.
“I firmly hope that in the first Assembly session, all the legislative members including Chief Minister and his council of ministers will not shy away from pressing for a resolution on Article 370. Should they fail in this regard, the growing apprehension of a betrayal of the public’s trust will solidify, marking the gravest calamity since the fateful decision of 2019,” he warned.
