The National Conference (NC), one of the most prominent political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, held its first working committee meeting since forming the new government in the Union Territory. The meeting, chaired by party president Farooq Abdullah and attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, passed seven resolutions addressing pressing issues faced by the region. The core message was a renewed call for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and full statehood, which the NC described as crucial to the aspirations, dignity, and rights of the people of the region.

Restoration of Special Status and Statehood

The NC emphasized that the revocation of Article 370 and 35A in August 2019 remains deeply controversial and emotionally charged for the residents of J&K. In its resolution, the party stated that restoring the special constitutional provisions is a non-negotiable priority. "The Committee reiterated that this is central to the aspirations and dignity of the people and must be addressed without further delay," it noted.

The working committee further called upon the Government of India (GoI) to fulfill its commitment to restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a promise made on the floor of the Parliament and reinforced by the Supreme Court of India. The NC emphasized that this demand is not merely political, but rooted in the constitutional and democratic rights of the citizens of the region.

Warning Against Arbitrary Governance Measures

In a strong critique of recent law enforcement practices in J&K, the NC warned that arbitrary arrests, harassment of youth, and the selective use of bulldozers to demolish homes or establishments will only deepen the sense of alienation and mistrust among the local population. The resolution said such actions "will only alienate the very people who have stood firmly for peace and against violence."

The NC also raised alarms over the intimidation of media voices and restrictions on journalists reporting from the region. “A free and fair media is the cornerstone of any democracy,” said a senior NC leader present at the meeting. “Suppressing truth under the garb of security concerns does more harm than good.”

Ceasefire and Peace Advocacy

Welcoming the India-Pakistan ceasefire, the NC leadership stressed the need for sustained peace and constructive engagement between the two nations. "The Committee welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and called upon both the countries to uphold peace and explore long-lasting, peaceful solutions to end violence," read the official resolution.

The ceasefire, in the NC's view, presents a unique opportunity to de-escalate border tensions and focus on developmental and humanitarian efforts. However, they urged both governments not to treat it as a mere tactical move but rather as a stepping stone towards long-term resolution of the Kashmir conflict.

Condemnation of the Baisaran Attack

The NC strongly condemned the Baisaran attack, which claimed 26 innocent lives, including that of a young Kashmiri, Syed Adil Hussain Shah. The party’s resolution called the attack a “horrific act of cowardice” and praised the people of J&K for their spontaneous and overwhelming condemnation of the violence.

It also appreciated the compassion and hospitality extended by locals to stranded tourists during the incident, stating that this act of solidarity and humanity should be acknowledged and respected by the central government. “GoI should not squander this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity extended by the people of J&K,” it said.

Concerns Over Discrimination Across India

The party also highlighted troubling reports of Kashmiri students, traders, and professionals facing harassment and selective targeting in various parts of India following recent events in the Valley. The resolution strongly condemned these actions and called upon state governments across India to ensure the safety, dignity, and protection of all people from J&K.

"This kind of discriminatory treatment damages the national fabric and undermines the idea of unity in diversity," the party said. NC leaders pointed out that national integration cannot be forced through fear, but rather must be nurtured through respect and mutual understanding.

Commitment to the Party Manifesto

The NC reaffirmed its commitment to the promises made in its election manifesto, which includes pledges to fight for constitutional safeguards, youth empowerment, media freedom, women’s rights, and socio-economic development. Omar Abdullah emphasized that the NC remains the voice of the people, and that the party's actions will always reflect the needs, aspirations, and sentiments of J&K’s residents.

Broader Context

This assertive resolution comes at a time when political temperatures in J&K are high, especially in the aftermath of the Supreme Court verdict on Article 370 and growing scrutiny over the Centre’s security-driven approach to handling dissent and public protests. Critics have accused the government of undermining civil liberties and relying too heavily on policing mechanisms rather than political dialogue.

On the other hand, Union government sources argue that security measures have been necessary to maintain law and order, particularly in light of cross-border terrorism threats and insurgency-related incidents.

Still, the NC believes that the only sustainable path forward involves genuine political engagement, respect for constitutional rights, and inclusive governance. “History has shown that suppression only breeds resistance. If the government truly wants peace, it must engage with the people, not bulldoze their homes or their hopes,” said a senior NC member.

Conclusion

The National Conference’s resolutions reflect a bold and comprehensive roadmap for peace, justice, and democratic restoration in Jammu and Kashmir. By pushing back against authoritarian practices and advocating for statehood, special status, and civil liberties, the NC is seeking to reframe the discourse on Kashmir not through the lens of conflict, but through that of constitutional morality and democratic values.

As tensions remain delicate, the Centre’s response to these demands — and its willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue with regional stakeholders — could play a decisive role in shaping the future trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir. The NC has now laid out its stand clearly. The next move rests with the Union government.

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