Statehood Debate Eclipsed by Administrative Rows in J&K: Waheed Para Criticizes NC”
Srinagar, 04 April 2025 – A Call to Refocus on Statehood Restoration
The ongoing political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir took another turn as People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed Para openly criticized the National Conference (NC) for what he sees as a misaligned focus. Addressing recent developments, Para accused the NC of prioritizing debates over administrative matters—specifically, the transfer of 48 JKAS officers—while the issue of restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood remains sidelined.
A Shift in Priorities: Governance or Rights?
Waheed Para pointed to the NC’s apparent preoccupation with administrative control as a reflection of their shifting priorities. “At a time when the people of Jammu and Kashmir expect their political representatives to champion statehood restoration, the focus instead has turned to bureaucratic appointments,” Para remarked.
He further emphasized that this preoccupation dilutes the collective fight for the restoration of rights, including statehood, lost during the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. The PDP leader accused the NC of adapting to the changes imposed after the reorganization of the region, a move he believes has weakened the political narrative surrounding statehood.
Criticism of the Status Quo
According to Waheed Para, the legislative meeting convened by the NC and its allies to discuss the transfer of JKAS officers is a distraction from more pressing matters. “This is not what the people of Jammu and Kashmir need right now,” he said. “Debating over officer transfers normalizes the changes forced on us post-2019, and it undermines the larger struggle for our rights and democratic aspirations.”
Para also took the opportunity to urge the NC to adopt a more robust stance against unemployment and the plight of youth, many of whom remain incarcerated due to political unrest. “The real issues lie in addressing the core concerns of our people—restoring their dignity, rights, and future,” he stated.
Statehood: The Lingering Question
While the transfer controversy dominates headlines, the broader concern over the delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood continues to loom large. The abrogation of Article 370 stripped the region of its special status, reducing it to a Union Territory—a move that sparked widespread discontent. While the central government has promised to restore statehood at an unspecified time, the uncertainty has left regional leaders and citizens frustrated.
Para expressed that a lack of clear timelines from the Centre has undermined trust in the restoration process. “Restoration of statehood is not just a political demand; it is essential to rebuild the people’s faith in the democratic process,” he commented.
A Call for Unified Leadership
In his closing remarks, Waheed Para called on all political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to come together and refocus on the fight for statehood. He expressed hope that these factions can unite for the greater good of the region, setting aside differences over administrative issues. “Our people deserve leaders who prioritize their rights and well-being over bureaucratic squabbles. It’s time to rise above these distractions and take a stand for what truly matters,” Para concluded.
Key Takeaways:
- Criticism of NC – PDP leader Waheed Para accused the National Conference of prioritizing officer transfers over statehood restoration.
- Call to Action – Urged all political parties to unite for the cause of democratic rights and statehood.
- Statehood Restoration
