People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday announced that the party will stage peaceful protests at all district headquarters across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, seeking the restoration of Article 370, as she unveiled the party's political roadmap ahead of its 27th Foundation Day.&nbsp;Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Mufti said the PDP would continue to pursue the restoration of Article 370 and the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir as part of what she described as the party's vision of "peace with dignity."&nbsp;She said the party would also advocate dialogue among the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh to bridge regional differences and strengthen mutual trust. Mufti called for the reopening of traditional routes connecting the two parts of Kashmir and urged the Centre to allow Kashmiri Pandits to undertake pilgrimages to the Sharda Peeth shrine across the Line of Control.&nbsp;Among the party's key demands, she sought the release of all political detainees and undertrial prisoners, including those who have been granted bail but continue to remain in custody. She also called for Army personnel to be relocated to barracks from areas where militancy has been eliminated, arguing that civilian spaces should be restored in regions that have returned to normalcy.&nbsp;On the economic front, the PDP chief demanded compensation for Jammu and Kashmir's power deficit, either through subsidised electricity or by transferring ownership of two central hydropower projects to the Union Territory. She also advocated granting separate divisional status to the Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal regions and reiterated the party's commitment to the rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits.&nbsp;Addressing the controversy surrounding her recent remarks at Jantar Mantar, Mufti said her statement had been misrepresented because of an inadvertent omission during her speech. She explained that she had been referring to the use of pellet guns in Kashmir and had accidentally omitted the word "bahana" (pretext), resulting in an incomplete statement.&nbsp;"I have spent 30 years of my political career reaching out to people who were victims of Ikhwan and other forces. At a time when Farooq Abdullah had left the Valley and was defending AFSPA and other laws, I stood with the people," Mufti said.&nbsp;She maintained that the viral video of her speech was authentic but argued that the omission of a single word had altered the meaning of her remarks. "If people have been hurt by my mistake or by the incomplete sentence, I apologise to those who have been left distraught," she said.&nbsp;Reacting to Mufti's announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rejected the demand for the restoration of Article 370, accusing the PDP of pursuing an agenda aligned with Pakistan. "The demand for the restoration of Article 370 is nothing but an attempt to revive a failed political narrative," BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur said.&nbsp;"Mehbooba Mufti is working according to Pakistan's agenda and at its behest. Today, the biggest issue is Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where, in the last 24 hours, more than 50 people have been killed and hundreds injured due to firing by the Pakistan Army. At Pakistan's direction, Mehbooba Mufti has once again started talking about Article 370 ahead of August 5 to divert attention from what is happening in PoJK.&nbsp;"August 5 marks the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India. It was a historic day. Article 370 has been buried forever and cannot be restored. No one in the world can bring it back. "At a time when the entire world, including the United Nations, is focused on Pakistan, she wants to shift the attention by raising the issue of Article 370. This reflects the ideology of Jamaat-e-Islami, Hafiz Saeed and Syed Salahuddin. She is carrying forward their agenda," Thakur alleged.

On the economic front, the PDP chief demanded compensation for Jammu and Kashmir's power deficit, either through subsidised electricity or by transferring ownership of two central hydropower projects to the Union Territory. 

People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday announced that the party will stage peaceful protests at all district headquarters across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, seeking the restoration of Article 370, as she unveiled the party's political roadmap ahead of its 27th Foundation Day. Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Mufti said the PDP would continue to pursue the restoration of Article 370 and the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir as part of what she described as the party's vision of "peace with dignity." She said the party would also advocate dialogue among the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh to bridge regional differences and strengthen mutual trust. Mufti called for the reopening of traditional routes connecting the two parts of Kashmir and urged the Centre to allow Kashmiri Pandits to undertake pilgrimages to the Sharda Peeth shrine across the Line of Control. Among the party's key demands, she sought the release of all political detainees and undertrial prisoners, including those who have been granted bail but continue to remain in custody. She also called for Army personnel to be relocated to barracks from areas where militancy has been eliminated, arguing that civilian spaces should be restored in regions that have returned to normalcy. On the economic front, the PDP chief demanded compensation for Jammu and Kashmir's power deficit, either through subsidised electricity or by transferring ownership of two central hydropower projects to the Union Territory. She also advocated granting separate divisional status to the Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal regions and reiterated the party's commitment to the rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. Addressing the controversy surrounding her recent remarks at Jantar Mantar, Mufti said her statement had been misrepresented because of an inadvertent omission during her speech. She explained that she had been referring to the use of pellet guns in Kashmir and had accidentally omitted the word "bahana" (pretext), resulting in an incomplete statement. "I have spent 30 years of my political career reaching out to people who were victims of Ikhwan and other forces. At a time when Farooq Abdullah had left the Valley and was defending AFSPA and other laws, I stood with the people," Mufti said. She maintained that the viral video of her speech was authentic but argued that the omission of a single word had altered the meaning of her remarks. "If people have been hurt by my mistake or by the incomplete sentence, I apologise to those who have been left distraught," she said. Reacting to Mufti's announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rejected the demand for the restoration of Article 370, accusing the PDP of pursuing an agenda aligned with Pakistan. "The demand for the restoration of Article 370 is nothing but an attempt to revive a failed political narrative," BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur said. "Mehbooba Mufti is working according to Pakistan's agenda and at its behest. Today, the biggest issue is Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where, in the last 24 hours, more than 50 people have been killed and hundreds injured due to firing by the Pakistan Army. At Pakistan's direction, Mehbooba Mufti has once again started talking about Article 370 ahead of August 5 to divert attention from what is happening in PoJK. "August 5 marks the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India. It was a historic day. Article 370 has been buried forever and cannot be restored. No one in the world can bring it back. "At a time when the entire world, including the United Nations, is focused on Pakistan, she wants to shift the attention by raising the issue of Article 370. This reflects the ideology of Jamaat-e-Islami, Hafiz Saeed and Syed Salahuddin. She is carrying forward their agenda," Thakur alleged.

On the economic front, the PDP chief demanded compensation for Jammu and Kashmir's power deficit, either through subsidised electricity or by transferring ownership of two central hydropower projects to the Union Territory.&nbsp;

PDP to stage August 5 protests seeking Article 370 restoration; BJP accuses Mehbooba of following Pakistan's agenda

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has laid out conditions for extending her party’s support to the National Conference (NC) in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, tying it to the NC’s stance on two key legislations proposed by the PDP. &nbsp;Speaking to media in Srinagar, Mufti revealed that she discussed the matter with NC president Farooq Abdullah, emphasizing that PDP’s backing hinges on the NC’s support for the Land Bill and the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill, set to be introduced in the ongoing Assembly session this month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mufti’s remarks come amid growing tensions with the NC-Congress alliance government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. She accused the administration of “failing on all fronts” and reneging on its pre-poll promises, leading to a further decline in governance in the Kashmir Valley. “The Omar Abdullah government&nbsp;has let down the people, and ordinary citizens continue to suffer due to its inability to deliver,” she said.&nbsp;Taking a sharp jab at recent administrative decisions, Mufti criticized the NC-led government for what she called the “normalization” of dismissing employees on allegations of supporting secessionist activities without thorough investigations. “Such actions undermine justice and fairness,” she said, urging the government to address these concerns transparently. In the Rajya Sabha elections, Mufti disclosed that Farooq Abdullah had reached out to seek PDP’s support for NC candidates. “I made it clear to him that our support is conditional. The National Conference must back the Land Bill and the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill in the Assembly. These are critical issues for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and we will not compromise,” she asserted.&nbsp;The Land Bill aims to address land-related grievances, while the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill seeks to provide job security to thousands of temporary workers in the region. Mufti emphasized that these legislations are central to the PDP’s agenda to address long-standing socio-economic challenges faced by the people.&nbsp;With the Rajya Sabha elections approaching, Mufti’s conditions signal a strategic move by the PDP to leverage its influence in the Assembly, where the NC-Congress alliance holds a majority but may need additional support to secure seats in the Upper House. Political analysts view this as a test of the NC’s willingness to collaborate on key policy issues amid strained relations between the two parties. As the Assembly session progresses, all eyes will be on the NC’s response to the PDP’s demands and the potential impact on the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Mehbooba Mufti sets conditions for PDP support in Rajya Sabha polls

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has laid out conditions for extending her party’s support to the National Conference (NC) in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, tying it to the NC’s stance on two key legislations proposed by the PDP. Speaking to media in Srinagar, Mufti revealed that she discussed the matter with NC president Farooq Abdullah, emphasizing that PDP’s backing hinges on the NC’s support for the Land Bill and the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill, set to be introduced in the ongoing Assembly session this month. Mufti’s remarks come amid growing tensions with the NC-Congress alliance government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. She accused the administration of “failing on all fronts” and reneging on its pre-poll promises, leading to a further decline in governance in the Kashmir Valley. “The Omar Abdullah government has let down the people, and ordinary citizens continue to suffer due to its inability to deliver,” she said. Taking a sharp jab at recent administrative decisions, Mufti criticized the NC-led government for what she called the “normalization” of dismissing employees on allegations of supporting secessionist activities without thorough investigations. “Such actions undermine justice and fairness,” she said, urging the government to address these concerns transparently. In the Rajya Sabha elections, Mufti disclosed that Farooq Abdullah had reached out to seek PDP’s support for NC candidates. “I made it clear to him that our support is conditional. The National Conference must back the Land Bill and the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill in the Assembly. These are critical issues for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and we will not compromise,” she asserted. The Land Bill aims to address land-related grievances, while the Regularisation of Daily Wagers Bill seeks to provide job security to thousands of temporary workers in the region. Mufti emphasized that these legislations are central to the PDP’s agenda to address long-standing socio-economic challenges faced by the people. With the Rajya Sabha elections approaching, Mufti’s conditions signal a strategic move by the PDP to leverage its influence in the Assembly, where the NC-Congress alliance holds a majority but may need additional support to secure seats in the Upper House. Political analysts view this as a test of the NC’s willingness to collaborate on key policy issues amid strained relations between the two parties. As the Assembly session progresses, all eyes will be on the NC’s response to the PDP’s demands and the potential impact on the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

Mufti’s remarks come amid growing tensions with the NC-Congress alliance government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, criticised People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday (Sep 29) for showing "solidarity" with deceased Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, criticised People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday (Sep 29) for showing "solidarity" with deceased Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. "Right now, there is a war going on between Israel and Palestine. The Israeli army killed Hezbollah commander Hassan Nasrullah. That is their country's business. But today, in Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti says she will not campaign because she is sad that Hasan Nasrullah has been killed. I want to ask Mehbooba, Farooq Abdullah, and Rahul Gandhi: When terrorists kill Hindu soldiers, do you feel sad or not?" Sarma was quoted as saying at an election rally in Haryana’s Sonipat by news agency ANI. What did Mehbooba Mufti say? Sarma’s comments came a day after Mufti, the former CM of Jammu and Kashmir, cancelled her election campaign on Sunday to show "solidarity with the martyrs of Lebanon & Gaza, especially Hassan Nasrallah." Also read: BJP's Amit Shah slams Congress for 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans at rallies; vows to ‘straighten’ Waqf Board law "Cancelling my campaign tomorrow in solidarity with the martyrs of Lebanon & Gaza, especially Hassan Nasarullah. We stand with the people of Palestine & Lebanon in this hour of immense grief & exemplary resistance," Mufti said in a post on X. 'Crocodile tears': Mufti faces backlash for her Nasrallah comment "Why does Hassan Nasarullah's death pain Mehbooba Mufti? When Hindus in Bangladesh are attacked and killed, they are tight-lipped. Today, when the commander of Hezbollah gets killed, they cancel the campaigning for one day. These are crocodile tears and people understand the intent behind this. This kind of conspiracy will lead to nothing; we should speak on the lines of humanity," said former Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta, according to ANI. Also read: Two abducted men seek help in viral video; Manipur CM blames ‘Kuki militants’ for kidnapping them Nasrallah’s body recovered intact from the site of strike Israel had previously announced on Friday that it killed Nasrallah during an airstrike on Hezbollah's headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburbs. Hezbollah confirmed his death the following day. Two sources told Reuters that Nasrallah’s body was recovered intact from the site of the Friday strike. As of Sunday, Hezbollah had not released any details regarding his funeral arrangements. (With inputs from agencies)

Assam CM Himanta Sarma blasts Mehbooba Mufti for mourning Nasrallah: 'When terrorists kill Hindu soldiers...'

In a significant political twist,&nbsp;Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday (August 24) said that her party will give unconditional support to the National Conference (NC) and Congress's pre-poll alliance&nbsp;if both these parties accept PDP's manifesto.&nbsp;

It was during the release of the party manifesto&nbsp;for the upcoming assembly elections that Mufti said that the party is not vying for seats but is ready to back the alliance if it aligns with their agenda, which prominently includes addressing the long-standing Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

Mufti while reading out details from the manifesto said that "Power and seats don't matter for the PDP." Her party's primary concern is the resolution of critical issues facing the region.

"We will not fight for the seats but will completely support the alliance if they agree to follow our agenda, which includes the resolution of the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;Power and seats don't matter for PDP, but in case the party's agenda is accepted, we will extend support to the alliance in Jammu and Kashmir."

"The traditional routes will be opened, free 200 units of electricity will be provided, the fight over the resolution of the Kashmir issue will be taken forward and the dialogue process to be started if PDP is elected to power,"&nbsp;said the PDP president.&nbsp;

The NC-Congress alliance, which also includes the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI (M)), has already announced plans to contest all 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir. While seat-sharing agreements have largely been finalised, discussions continue over certain contentious constituencies where candidates from both parties are eager to compete.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-unveils-new-pension-scheme-for-govt-employees-here-are-its-key-features-753011">India unveils new pension scheme for government employees; here are its key features</a>

Meanwhile, Apni Party president Syed Altaf Bukhari revealed that his party intends to field candidates on 60 seats, 40 in Kashmir and 20 in Jammu, during the upcoming assembly elections.&nbsp;

"There won't be any alliance with anyone, and we did bear the brunt in the Lok Sabha elections. We will contest the assembly polls on our own and we have decided not to go for any alliance this time. PDP and BJP are in a secret alliance with NC and Congress,"&nbsp;said Bukhari, president of the Apni Party.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Congress chaired a meeting of its screening committee in Srinagar to address the concerns of party leaders who are aggrieved over seat-sharing with the National Conference.

Since the alliance between the Congress and NC has been announced, resentment within the Congress party is brewing against surrendering in front of NC.&nbsp;

In a significant political twist, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday (August 24) said that her party will give unconditional support to the National Conference (NC) and Congress's pre-poll alliance if both these parties accept PDP's manifesto.

In a significant political twist, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday (August 24) said that her party will give unconditional support to the National Conference (NC) and Congress's pre-poll alliance if both these parties accept PDP's manifesto. It was during the release of the party manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections that Mufti said that the party is not vying for seats but is ready to back the alliance if it aligns with their agenda, which prominently includes addressing the long-standing Kashmir issue. Mufti while reading out details from the manifesto said that "Power and seats don't matter for the PDP." Her party's primary concern is the resolution of critical issues facing the region. "We will not fight for the seats but will completely support the alliance if they agree to follow our agenda, which includes the resolution of the Kashmir issue. Power and seats don't matter for PDP, but in case the party's agenda is accepted, we will extend support to the alliance in Jammu and Kashmir." "The traditional routes will be opened, free 200 units of electricity will be provided, the fight over the resolution of the Kashmir issue will be taken forward and the dialogue process to be started if PDP is elected to power," said the PDP president. The NC-Congress alliance, which also includes the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI (M)), has already announced plans to contest all 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir. While seat-sharing agreements have largely been finalised, discussions continue over certain contentious constituencies where candidates from both parties are eager to compete. Also read: India unveils new pension scheme for government employees; here are its key features Meanwhile, Apni Party president Syed Altaf Bukhari revealed that his party intends to field candidates on 60 seats, 40 in Kashmir and 20 in Jammu, during the upcoming assembly elections. "There won't be any alliance with anyone, and we did bear the brunt in the Lok Sabha elections. We will contest the assembly polls on our own and we have decided not to go for any alliance this time. PDP and BJP are in a secret alliance with NC and Congress," said Bukhari, president of the Apni Party. Meanwhile, Congress chaired a meeting of its screening committee in Srinagar to address the concerns of party leaders who are aggrieved over seat-sharing with the National Conference. Since the alliance between the Congress and NC has been announced, resentment within the Congress party is brewing against surrendering in front of NC.

Mehbooba Mufti offers unconditional support to NC-Congress alliance if they adopt PDP’s agenda

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti made a significant announcement on Saturday (August 24), ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, during the release of her party's manifesto.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti made a significant announcement on Saturday (August 24), ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, during the release of her party's manifesto. Mufti said that if the National Conference (NC) and Congress were willing to accept the PDP's manifesto and align on resolving the problems of Kashmir, she would support their alliance without contesting any seats. "Alliance and seat sharing are faraway things. If the National Conference and Congress are ready to adopt our agenda, we will say they should contest on all seats, we will follow them because for me solving the problem of Kashmir is more important than anything else..." she said. "When we allied earlier also, we had an agenda, when we allied with the BJP, we had an agenda which they agreed to but the alliance between the National Conference and Congress is not happening on the agenda, it is happening on seat sharing," the PDP leader added. Resumption of trade across LOC In the PDP manifesto, Mufti has advocated for the resumption of trade across the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. The National Conference has similarly included this point in its "12 guarantees" within its manifesto. The PDP leader also noted the challenges that have arisen since the abrogation of Article 370, remarking, "The issue has become even more complicated after the removal of Article 370. We will take Jammu and Kashmir out of the quagmire of difficulties." Free electricity, no water taxes, and more The manifesto outlines various socio-economic initiatives designed to ease the difficulties faced by the people. Also read: Bomb blast in southwestern Pakistan kills two children, injures 16 others Mufti promised, "We will provide free electricity up to 200 units, abolish water taxes, and there should be no water meters. We will also offer a one-time settlement for old electricity bills. For the poor, we will implement the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed scheme again, providing 12 cylinders a year." "We will double social security benefits like old age pensions and widow pensions. We will ensure that all government jobs are filled, and temples and gurdwaras will receive free electricity," she said. Return of Kashmiri Pandits She also committed to facilitating the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley, emphasising that her party would take all necessary steps to ensure their safe return. Mufti clarified that the upcoming elections are not just about statehood or seat sharing, but about larger goals. "For me, this election is not for statehood or seat sharing... We have a bigger goal... We are fighting for dignity, for the resolution of the Kashmir issue," she continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Mehbooba Mufti reveals PDP manifesto: Trade across LOC, return of Kashmiri Pandits, and other key points

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank.

The National Conference, its arch-rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and new entrant People's Conference led by Sajad Gani Lone have been talking about protection of Articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution in their rallies in the run-up to the polling which is scheduled to begin on April 11, latching on to BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks that Article 35A will be repealed by 2020.

"Protecting the special status of Jammu and Kashmir as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country, is one of the main cornerstones of our campaign for these elections," National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah told PTI.

The former chief minister dismissed suggestions that six Lok Sabha members from Jammu and Kashmir were numerically insignificant in case the special provision related to the state was to be scrapped through legislation in Parliament.

"It is not a numerical argument, it is an argument based on facts. Yes, we only have six seats but Jammu and Kashmir bats far above its rankings otherwise. The smallest thing in Jammu and Kashmir becomes international news, very big things in other states are often ignored. So, I think six members in Parliament can do more than 60 from another state," he said.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti is using the special status of the state and the buzz surrounding it to stage a comeback after her party's coalition government with the BJP fell last year.

She has adopted a more hardline posture than any of the regional parties on the issues related to Article 35A and Article 370.

"The relationship between our state and the country is based on our special constitutional position that legitimises it. If we remove, what legalises this relationship, it will turn into an occupation and colonisation," she said.

Mehbooba, while reacting to Shah's remarks on Article 35A, said the relation of Jammu and Kashmir with India will end if the terms and conditions of state's accession to the Union were changed.&nbsp;

"2020 will also be a deadline from Jammu and Kashmir to the nation. If you remove those terms and conditions on which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India, our relation with the country will also finish," the former chief minister, who is contesting from Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, said.

Lone, who was a minister in the PDP-led coalition government in the state from the BJP quota, has also vowed to defend the state's special status.

"Article 35A is a matter of faith and dignity for the people of the J&amp;K through which the Constitution of India guarantees to safeguard the special identity and unique status of Jammu &amp; Kashmir. In matters of pride and identity, profit and loss are immaterial. Can a country allow a foreign country to undermine its sovereignty and national pride just for the sake of some monetary gains," Lone asked.

He said Jammu and Kashmir was not the only state with special residency laws.

"All northeastern states and even Himachal Pradesh have laws prohibiting non-locals from purchasing land. Why are politicians in New Delhi only against J&amp;K's special status? What are their views on Art 371-A to 371-K which guarantee provisions like 370 as applicable to the northeastern states," he said.

Although Congress leaders in their campaign have focussed more on issues dominating the discourse at the national level, the local leaders have made it a point to raise the issue of protecting the special status in electioneering in the valley.

"No power in the world can revoke Article 370 and Article 35-A," state Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is contesting from the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, claimed.&nbsp;

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank.

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank. The National Conference, its arch-rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and new entrant People's Conference led by Sajad Gani Lone have been talking about protection of Articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution in their rallies in the run-up to the polling which is scheduled to begin on April 11, latching on to BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks that Article 35A will be repealed by 2020. "Protecting the special status of Jammu and Kashmir as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country, is one of the main cornerstones of our campaign for these elections," National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah told PTI. The former chief minister dismissed suggestions that six Lok Sabha members from Jammu and Kashmir were numerically insignificant in case the special provision related to the state was to be scrapped through legislation in Parliament. "It is not a numerical argument, it is an argument based on facts. Yes, we only have six seats but Jammu and Kashmir bats far above its rankings otherwise. The smallest thing in Jammu and Kashmir becomes international news, very big things in other states are often ignored. So, I think six members in Parliament can do more than 60 from another state," he said. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti is using the special status of the state and the buzz surrounding it to stage a comeback after her party's coalition government with the BJP fell last year. She has adopted a more hardline posture than any of the regional parties on the issues related to Article 35A and Article 370. "The relationship between our state and the country is based on our special constitutional position that legitimises it. If we remove, what legalises this relationship, it will turn into an occupation and colonisation," she said. Mehbooba, while reacting to Shah's remarks on Article 35A, said the relation of Jammu and Kashmir with India will end if the terms and conditions of state's accession to the Union were changed. "2020 will also be a deadline from Jammu and Kashmir to the nation. If you remove those terms and conditions on which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India, our relation with the country will also finish," the former chief minister, who is contesting from Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, said. Lone, who was a minister in the PDP-led coalition government in the state from the BJP quota, has also vowed to defend the state's special status. "Article 35A is a matter of faith and dignity for the people of the J&K through which the Constitution of India guarantees to safeguard the special identity and unique status of Jammu & Kashmir. In matters of pride and identity, profit and loss are immaterial. Can a country allow a foreign country to undermine its sovereignty and national pride just for the sake of some monetary gains," Lone asked. He said Jammu and Kashmir was not the only state with special residency laws. "All northeastern states and even Himachal Pradesh have laws prohibiting non-locals from purchasing land. Why are politicians in New Delhi only against J&K's special status? What are their views on Art 371-A to 371-K which guarantee provisions like 370 as applicable to the northeastern states," he said. Although Congress leaders in their campaign have focussed more on issues dominating the discourse at the national level, the local leaders have made it a point to raise the issue of protecting the special status in electioneering in the valley. "No power in the world can revoke Article 370 and Article 35-A," state Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is contesting from the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, claimed.

Lok Sabha elections: J&K parties make special status key poll issue

Days after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-mehbooba-mufti-writes-to-governor-stakes-claim-to-form-government-178644">dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir</a>, the Congress demanded&nbsp;that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule".

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the Governor's rule in the state as a "de facto Modi rule".

"The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721"> Governor's (Satya Pal Malik)</a> rule in Kashmir is (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi rule. It is BJP rule," he told reporters here.

"BJP, in collusion with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ran the show in J&amp;K and Ladakh from behind the curtain. It is all the more important today that democracy is restored there," Surjewala said.

"Only elections can pave the way for formation of people's government in J&amp;K," he said, adding, "So Modi-ji and the Governor should get elections held as soon as possible."

"This is our direct and clear demand," Surjewala said.

The Governor abruptly dissolved the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Wednesday night, hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival NC and the Congress.

This was followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties.

Besides slamming the move, Surjewala also targeted the Modi government for "pushing J&amp;K and Ladakh into deep violence".

Neither the Pakistan-exported terrorism stopped nor did violence cease, Surjewala alleged.

"Neither ceasefire violation by Pakistani Army stopped nor was the prime minister with 56-inch chest able to stop Pakistan from exporting extremists," the Congress leader added. 
&nbsp;

Days after the dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress demanded that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule".

Days after the dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress demanded that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule". Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the Governor's rule in the state as a "de facto Modi rule". "The Governor's (Satya Pal Malik) rule in Kashmir is (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi rule. It is BJP rule," he told reporters here. "BJP, in collusion with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ran the show in J&K and Ladakh from behind the curtain. It is all the more important today that democracy is restored there," Surjewala said. "Only elections can pave the way for formation of people's government in J&K," he said, adding, "So Modi-ji and the Governor should get elections held as soon as possible." "This is our direct and clear demand," Surjewala said. The Governor abruptly dissolved the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Wednesday night, hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival NC and the Congress. This was followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties. Besides slamming the move, Surjewala also targeted the Modi government for "pushing J&K and Ladakh into deep violence". Neither the Pakistan-exported terrorism stopped nor did violence cease, Surjewala alleged. "Neither ceasefire violation by Pakistani Army stopped nor was the prime minister with 56-inch chest able to stop Pakistan from exporting extremists," the Congress leader added.

Governor rule in J&K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said.

The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16.

In the first phase polls Monday, threats from militant groups kept a majority of people away from polling booths in Kashmir Valley where the turnout was a paltry 8.3 per cent, whereas over 65 per cent of the electorate voted in the Jammu and Ladakh divisions of the state.

Polling on Monday was by and large peaceful in the four-phase election to urban local bodies, which has been boycotted by two main regional parties -- the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Officials said Tuesday security arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the second phase elections which will take place from 6&nbsp; 
am to 4 pm.

The second phase will cover a total of 384 wards spanning 13 districts across the state seven of which are in the Valley, officials said.

They said 1,198 nominations were received for these wards and after scrutiny and withdrawal, 1,095 contestants are in the fray for the polls.&nbsp;

Out of 1,095 candidates, 65 have won the polls uncontested, including 61 from Kashmir Valley.

They said no polling will take place at 56 rpt 56 wards in the Valley as no nomination was received.

No nomination was submitted in all 13 wards of Frisal municipal committee of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, while only one nomination was received for 13 wards of Beerwah municipal committee in central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said.&nbsp;

Frisal, a part of Kulgam Assembly constituency, is represented by lone CPI(M) legislator M Y Tarigami, while Beerwah is represented in the state Assembly by former chief minister and National Conference (NC) vice-president Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

A police official said security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the polls in all the areas were people would vote Wednesday, including in the 20 wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the city here.&nbsp;

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said. The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16.

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said. The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16. In the first phase polls Monday, threats from militant groups kept a majority of people away from polling booths in Kashmir Valley where the turnout was a paltry 8.3 per cent, whereas over 65 per cent of the electorate voted in the Jammu and Ladakh divisions of the state. Polling on Monday was by and large peaceful in the four-phase election to urban local bodies, which has been boycotted by two main regional parties -- the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Officials said Tuesday security arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the second phase elections which will take place from 6 am to 4 pm. The second phase will cover a total of 384 wards spanning 13 districts across the state seven of which are in the Valley, officials said. They said 1,198 nominations were received for these wards and after scrutiny and withdrawal, 1,095 contestants are in the fray for the polls. Out of 1,095 candidates, 65 have won the polls uncontested, including 61 from Kashmir Valley. They said no polling will take place at 56 rpt 56 wards in the Valley as no nomination was received. No nomination was submitted in all 13 wards of Frisal municipal committee of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, while only one nomination was received for 13 wards of Beerwah municipal committee in central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said. Frisal, a part of Kulgam Assembly constituency, is represented by lone CPI(M) legislator M Y Tarigami, while Beerwah is represented in the state Assembly by former chief minister and National Conference (NC) vice-president Omar Abdullah. A police official said security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the polls in all the areas were people would vote Wednesday, including in the 20 wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the city here.

J&K local polls: Over 1,000 candidates to participate in second phase 

About 2,000 Kurds and pro-Kurdish supporters peacefully gathered in Paris on Saturday,&nbsp;protesting against the Turkish government following the arrests of leading Kurdish politicians.

The leaders of Turkey&#39;s pro-Kurdish opposition Peoples&#39;&nbsp;Democratic Party (HDP) were jailed pending trial on Friday&nbsp;as part of a terrorism investigation, drawing condemnation in the West of a crackdown on dissent under President Tayyip Erdogan.

Turkish authorities also detained nine officials from the country&#39;s main pro-Kurdish opposition party on Saturday, a party official said, a day after the formal arrests of HDP co-leaders Selahattin Demirtas and Figen Yuksekdag.

In Paris, demonstrators gathered at Place de la Republique holding up anti-Erdogan signs and unfurling large Kurdish flags.

&quot;Yes we are here because in Turkey they imprison our Kurdish lawmakers who represent the Kurdish people and we don&#39;t agree with that. We will never agree with that. The Kurdish people are on their feet,&quot; said a Kurdish protester named Emilie.

The HDP, Turkey&#39;s&nbsp;third-largest party, made history last year by becoming the first Kurdish-rooted party to win the 10 per cent of the vote required to enter parliament.

European officials have raised concerns about Turkey&#39;s detention or suspension of more than 110,000 officials in the wake of the failed coup in July, including judges, teachers, police and civil servants. Some 170 newspapers, magazines, TV stations and news agencies have been closed in the crackdown, leaving 2,500 journalists unemployed, Turkey&#39;s journalists&#39;&nbsp;association has said.

&quot;We are gathered to show everyone, especially Europeans what we want, what is happening in Turkey and get them to stop helping Turkey continue in their anti-democratic activities,&quot; said Kurdish representative in France Ismail Cakici.

Erdogan and the ruling AK Party accuse the HDP of links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has carried out a violent insurgency in Turkey&#39;s mainly Kurdish southeast for three decades. The HDP denies direct links and says it is working for a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish conflict.&nbsp;

(Reuters)

The leaders of Turkey's pro-Kurdish opposition Peoples'?Democratic Party (HDP) were jailed Friday, drawing condemnation from the West

About 2,000 Kurds and pro-Kurdish supporters peacefully gathered in Paris on Saturday, protesting against the Turkish government following the arrests of leading Kurdish politicians. The leaders of Turkey's pro-Kurdish opposition Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) were jailed pending trial on Friday as part of a terrorism investigation, drawing condemnation in the West of a crackdown on dissent under President Tayyip Erdogan. Turkish authorities also detained nine officials from the country's main pro-Kurdish opposition party on Saturday, a party official said, a day after the formal arrests of HDP co-leaders Selahattin Demirtas and Figen Yuksekdag. In Paris, demonstrators gathered at Place de la Republique holding up anti-Erdogan signs and unfurling large Kurdish flags. "Yes we are here because in Turkey they imprison our Kurdish lawmakers who represent the Kurdish people and we don't agree with that. We will never agree with that. The Kurdish people are on their feet," said a Kurdish protester named Emilie. The HDP, Turkey's third-largest party, made history last year by becoming the first Kurdish-rooted party to win the 10 per cent of the vote required to enter parliament. European officials have raised concerns about Turkey's detention or suspension of more than 110,000 officials in the wake of the failed coup in July, including judges, teachers, police and civil servants. Some 170 newspapers, magazines, TV stations and news agencies have been closed in the crackdown, leaving 2,500 journalists unemployed, Turkey's journalists' association has said. "We are gathered to show everyone, especially Europeans what we want, what is happening in Turkey and get them to stop helping Turkey continue in their anti-democratic activities," said Kurdish representative in France Ismail Cakici. Erdogan and the ruling AK Party accuse the HDP of links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has carried out a violent insurgency in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast for three decades. The HDP denies direct links and says it is working for a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish conflict. (Reuters)

Thousands of Kurdish supporters in Paris protest against Turkish authorities

The Kashmir talks between the Indian government and various stake-holders from the northern state were bound to fail as it became an internal exercise for the representatives of political parties who were in capital Srinagar for the proposed dialogue. 
 
Instead of an engagement with groups associated with the protests that have kept Kashmir on boil for almost two months, the all-party meet at Sher-e-Kashmir centre morphed into a briefing session by Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti. 
 
Although the current view within the Indian establishment is that the agitation is funded and instigated by Pakistan, but closely observed, it is clear that the seeds of discord were sown by the competitive politics of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Kashmir&#39;s People&#39;s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
There is no denying that Pakistan has funded terrorists and aided and directed attacks on the Indian side. It would, however, be foolish to overlook the fact that the fierce Kashmiri pride, if denied its own political, cultural and social space, often erupts in violent street protests. 
 
The PDP, on one hand, kept alive the rhetoric of &#39;a political solution&#39; to the problem of Kashmir&#39;s demand for azaadi (freedom) alive, but was quick to establish a close working relationship with the BJP that has always opposed any demand for self-determination for the state. 
 
The BJP-PDP combine in was expected to bring Jammu and the Valley together, but competitive politics for retaining core votes only created a bigger chasm. 
&nbsp; 
A common minimum programme was devised by the state government to ensure a smooth tenure, but it only ended up alientating the PDP&rsquo;s cadre that felt that the core issue on which they voted was compromised. 
 
A host of issues contributed to it. Whether it was the mulling of Union Territory status for Ladakh (a part of the state that has a sizeable Buddhist population, as opposed to Kashmir that is predominantly Muslim),&nbsp;or the consideration of the idea of &#39;a neglected Jammu,&#39; it only fostered distrust. The narrative of media also changed. 
 
The above debates polarised the views on the identity of Kashmir. Whether it was the skirmish between non-Kashmiri students and local ones over India&#39;s defeat in a cricket match that turned violent at Srinagar&#39;s National Institute of Technology or the&nbsp;move to establish enclaves for Indian Army ex-servicemen called &#39;Sainik Colony&#39; in Srinagar and Budgam that has been opposed by civil society and the separatist groups, Delhi appeared aloof. 
 
Suddenly everyday politics became coded gesture of a more muscular India intent on dealing with the Kashmir issue as if the state had to compensate for Pakistan&rsquo;s intransigent stand on various issues. 
 
The belief that successfully organising elections in the state affirm India&#39;s commitment towards the ideals of its Constitution has failed in Kashmir. This approach has also failed in other parts of India where tribal areas still witness armed insurgencies -- proving the point that elections are only the starting point in a democracy not the end. 
 
It becomes especially true in the state of Kashmir where Article 370 as an instrument of accession creates a different political situation on the ground. 
&nbsp; 
In this case the PDP cadre not only merged into the angry mobs, but also vented anger against senior party leaders when their houses came under attack. 
 
This brings us back to the question of a&nbsp;solution. First, it becomes imperative for the current government to look into the suggestions made by three-member committee of interlocutors appointed by the previous government and announce certain concrete steps. 
 
Second, PDP leaders must show enough courage to engage the locals by organising meetings in rural areas so that the ground situation can be stabilised. 
 
Third, Balochistan as an issue can only be a diplomatic pressure point, but not as a solution to the local problem. 
 
And last, since it has recognised that the agitation is headless, it becomes imperative that small groups of professionals must be encouraged for talks and the reconciliation process so that the agitation doesn&rsquo;t become hostage to entities like Hurriyat that have a fixed agenda. 
 
The strength of any democracy lies in absorbing dissent and not ignoring it. The challenge before the Centre is not to treat Kashmir as a logistical issue, but as a political challenge where creative solutions within the ambit of constitutional norm should be made available to common Kashmiris. 
 
(WION)

Politicians talking among themselves cannot be a solution to the Kashmir unrest; need to engage young professionals in talks

The Kashmir talks between the Indian government and various stake-holders from the northern state were bound to fail as it became an internal exercise for the representatives of political parties who were in capital Srinagar for the proposed dialogue. Instead of an engagement with groups associated with the protests that have kept Kashmir on boil for almost two months, the all-party meet at Sher-e-Kashmir centre morphed into a briefing session by Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti. Although the current view within the Indian establishment is that the agitation is funded and instigated by Pakistan, but closely observed, it is clear that the seeds of discord were sown by the competitive politics of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Kashmir's People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. There is no denying that Pakistan has funded terrorists and aided and directed attacks on the Indian side. It would, however, be foolish to overlook the fact that the fierce Kashmiri pride, if denied its own political, cultural and social space, often erupts in violent street protests. The PDP, on one hand, kept alive the rhetoric of 'a political solution' to the problem of Kashmir's demand for azaadi (freedom) alive, but was quick to establish a close working relationship with the BJP that has always opposed any demand for self-determination for the state. The BJP-PDP combine in was expected to bring Jammu and the Valley together, but competitive politics for retaining core votes only created a bigger chasm. A common minimum programme was devised by the state government to ensure a smooth tenure, but it only ended up alientating the PDP’s cadre that felt that the core issue on which they voted was compromised. A host of issues contributed to it. Whether it was the mulling of Union Territory status for Ladakh (a part of the state that has a sizeable Buddhist population, as opposed to Kashmir that is predominantly Muslim), or the consideration of the idea of 'a neglected Jammu,' it only fostered distrust. The narrative of media also changed. The above debates polarised the views on the identity of Kashmir. Whether it was the skirmish between non-Kashmiri students and local ones over India's defeat in a cricket match that turned violent at Srinagar's National Institute of Technology or the move to establish enclaves for Indian Army ex-servicemen called 'Sainik Colony' in Srinagar and Budgam that has been opposed by civil society and the separatist groups, Delhi appeared aloof. Suddenly everyday politics became coded gesture of a more muscular India intent on dealing with the Kashmir issue as if the state had to compensate for Pakistan’s intransigent stand on various issues. The belief that successfully organising elections in the state affirm India's commitment towards the ideals of its Constitution has failed in Kashmir. This approach has also failed in other parts of India where tribal areas still witness armed insurgencies -- proving the point that elections are only the starting point in a democracy not the end. It becomes especially true in the state of Kashmir where Article 370 as an instrument of accession creates a different political situation on the ground. In this case the PDP cadre not only merged into the angry mobs, but also vented anger against senior party leaders when their houses came under attack. This brings us back to the question of a solution. First, it becomes imperative for the current government to look into the suggestions made by three-member committee of interlocutors appointed by the previous government and announce certain concrete steps. Second, PDP leaders must show enough courage to engage the locals by organising meetings in rural areas so that the ground situation can be stabilised. Third, Balochistan as an issue can only be a diplomatic pressure point, but not as a solution to the local problem. And last, since it has recognised that the agitation is headless, it becomes imperative that small groups of professionals must be encouraged for talks and the reconciliation process so that the agitation doesn’t become hostage to entities like Hurriyat that have a fixed agenda. The strength of any democracy lies in absorbing dissent and not ignoring it. The challenge before the Centre is not to treat Kashmir as a logistical issue, but as a political challenge where creative solutions within the ambit of constitutional norm should be made available to common Kashmiris. (WION)

Why Kashmir talk was a non-starter