Srinagar, Jul 16: National Conference (NC) leader and Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Nasir Aslam Wani, on Thursday said the party will proceed with its proposed protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20, regardless of whether permission is granted by the authorities.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a condolence meeting at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subah, held in memory of senior NC leader Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, Wani said the party leadership and workers would reach New Delhi ahead of the scheduled programme.
“Our programme will go ahead irrespective of whether permission is granted. The detailed schedule will be announced in due course,” he said.
Responding to reports that invitations had been extended to leaders of several political parties, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, Wani said it would become clear on July 20 who chooses to participate.
“Those who truly care about Jammu and Kashmir, sympathise with its people and stand with them will certainly join us at Jantar Mantar,” he said.
Wani reiterated that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional position and the guarantees that were taken away remains the National Conference’s primary political objective.
He said the restoration of statehood is an essential step towards achieving that goal, adding that the people had voted for an elected government and not for a system with dual centres of power.
Paying tribute to Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, Wani described him as a humble leader, a respected political thinker and a scholar with deep knowledge of religion and Jammu and Kashmir’s political history.
He said Dr. Kamal remained closely associated with the party’s political journey and frequently guided leaders and workers with his experience and insight.
Calling his demise an irreparable loss, Wani said the late leader’s absence would leave a significant void in the National Conference.
