Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday said he would join the National Conference’s proposed protest at Jantar Mantar but maintained that the restoration of Article 370, rather than statehood alone, must remain the central demand.
Speaking to reporters in Pulwama, Ruhullah said he would “definitely” participate in the protest but stressed that the political struggle should not be limited to a one-day event.
He called for a sustained and organised movement, arguing that the demand must go beyond the restoration of statehood to include the reinstatement of constitutional protections that existed before the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
“A single protest is not enough,” Ruhullah said, underlining the need for a continuous political campaign that reflects broader concerns, including the rights and protections of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The MP also highlighted challenges faced by the younger generation in the post-2019 period, asserting that justice is essential for achieving lasting peace in the region.
Expressing concern over issues related to land rights, employment opportunities and reservation policies, Ruhullah alleged that local residents were being deprived of their rightful share. Referring to examples from rural areas, including Pulwama, he said restrictions affecting agriculture and livelihoods point to what he described as “systemic injustice”.
He further stated that several key political and administrative commitments remain unfulfilled, adding that while improved governance could help ease public grievances, unresolved issues continue to fuel dissatisfaction among the people.
Reiterating his position, Ruhullah said that “permanent peace” can only be achieved through justice and meaningful political engagement, rather than through symbolic measures alone.
