Tral, July 22: District Development Council (DDC) member and socio-political activist Dr. Harbakash Singh on Tuesday urged political parties to adopt a clear and united approach for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, stating that mere street protests and symbolic gestures are not enough.
Speaking to the media in Tral, Dr. Singh said, “If Parliament has the willpower, it can shake the entire system and restore statehood. But this cannot be achieved through street drama or token protests.”
He criticized the shifting political narrative around Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting how earlier promises focused on restoring Article 370 and 35A, but now the conversation has narrowed down to statehood alone.
“When elections were being fought, everyone was talking about bringing back Article 370 and 35A. Now the demand has shifted to statehood,” he observed. “This is a democratic struggle, and it must be fought through institutions—not by blocking roads.”
Dr. Singh also challenged the current government’s stance, saying, “If the BJP calls the demand for statehood a conflict, then let it be known—it is the biggest democratic conflict in the country.”
He further questioned the unity of opposition parties on the issue. “The public deserves clarity. Is this just the Congress Party’s demand, or are its allied parties also standing with them in seeking statehood?”
Calling for transparency and consistency in the political approach, Dr. Singh urged all democratic forces to unite in Parliament and present a strong front. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have waited long enough. It’s time to stop playing politics and start delivering on promises.”
