Omar to take J&K statehood movement to Delhi; protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20

Jammu, July 12: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday asserted that the July 20 demonstration in Delhi will mark the beginning of a new phase in the party’s campaign for statehood to the Union Territory.
Abdullah was addressing a well-attended public rally at Maharaja Hari Singh Park – his first major public meeting in Jammu city in many years. The rally assumed significance as it was held in the BJP stronghold.
The gathering came a day after the National Conference organised a grand workers’ convention at the mausoleum of Abdullah’s grandparents in the Hazratbal area here, held to mark the 26th death anniversary of his grandmother, Akbar Jehan.
Abdullah paid his tributes to her on the stage amid cheering by thousands of party workers and a sea of flags and banners demanding statehood.
A large banner on the stage proclaimed, “Delhi Chalo! We Want Our Statehood,” whereas placards bore the slogans: “Hamari Riyasat, Hamari Shaan” and “Hamari Riyasat, Hamara Haq.” “Enough is enough! There will be no more waiting!” the chief minister said at the rally.
He said the party’s silence was being mistaken for weakness.
“Our decency is being taken for granted. Our silence is being mistaken for weakness, and our patience is being tested beyond its limits.
“After enduring every taunt hurled at us by the BJP, facing constant accusations, and confronting every conspiracy against our party, we have reached the conclusion that the time has come to take to the streets,” Abdullah said.
The party has ratcheted up its efforts for statehood after a nearly two-year wait. “We have given the Central government enough time. For almost two years, we pursued one approach … Now we will adopt a new strategy. That new phase will begin on July 20, when we will gather in Delhi and raise our voice for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood,” the NC leader said. (PTI)