Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah says the National Conference’s planned protest in Delhi on July 20 regarding restoration of statehood will proceed as planned despite his uncle’s death. Abdullah’s party plans to travel to Delhi on July 19 to decide the next steps. The party is seeking permission to hold the protest at Jantar Mantar; if permission is not granted, it will review its course of action.
National Conference has reportedly invited 52 political figures for the federalism/statehood-related cause protest. Congress is described as supporting the statehood-plus demand, including calls for protections and rights for land and jobs. The PDP’s position on the invitation has not been confirmed in the reports.
In addition to the protest programme, the National Conference has sought a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu related to the statehood restoration demand. Abdullah also indicates the party is awaiting decisions on the protest venue while coordinating its engagement with the President.
