People's Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti has announced that her party will hold a protest on August 5 to mark the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked the special status previously enjoyed by the former state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking about the planned demonstration, Mehbooba Mufti said the protest is intended to highlight the People's Democratic Party's long-standing demand for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. She stated that the party also seeks the release of all political prisoners and detainees and has called for measures aimed at restoring democratic and political processes in the Union Territory.
According to the PDP, the protest will focus on constitutional issues, political rights, and the need for dialogue. Party leaders said they believe restoring constitutional safeguards and encouraging political engagement are important for addressing the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Mehbooba Mufti also reiterated her party's vision of transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a bridge connecting Central Asia and South Asia through peaceful engagement, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity. She said such an approach could contribute to long-term stability and development in the region.
During her interaction with the media, Mehbooba Mufti also addressed remarks she had made in the past regarding the use of force at Jantar Mantar. She expressed regret over those comments and offered an apology, stating that her intention was not to support violence. She clarified that her political approach remains rooted in democratic principles and peaceful methods.
The announcement comes as political discussions surrounding Jammu and Kashmir continue ahead of the anniversary of the constitutional changes introduced in August 2019. Different political parties and organizations have expressed varying views on the developments since the reorganization of the former state into two Union Territories.
Meanwhile, National Conference Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi is reportedly organizing a conference in New Delhi to discuss issues related to Jammu and Kashmir. The proposed event is expected to bring together political leaders, academics, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders for discussions on constitutional, political, and developmental matters concerning the region.
The abrogation of Article 370 and the removal of Article 35A remain among the most significant constitutional and political developments in recent Indian history. While the Central Government has maintained that the changes were introduced to promote development, improve governance, and ensure equal rights, several regional political parties continue to advocate for the restoration of the former constitutional provisions.
The planned protest by the People's Democratic Party reflects the party's continued political position on the issue and is expected to draw attention to its demands as the anniversary approaches.