Ruhullah Reasserts National Conference’s Core Agenda: Not Just Statehood, But Constitutional Restoration
By: Javid Amin | Srinagar | 29 June 2025
In a powerful reaffirmation of the National Conference’s political philosophy, MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has reiterated that Jammu & Kashmir’s fight is not merely about statehood. Instead, he stressed that the demand is for the complete restoration of constitutional guarantees that were stripped away on August 5, 2019, through the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Ruhullah made it clear that statehood alone does not suffice, and the constitutional relationship established at the time of Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India must be restored in both letter and spirit.
“Our fight is for the return of that constitutional guarantee, not just for a downgraded version of statehood,” Ruhullah said emphatically.
The Larger Fight: Reversing August 2019
August 5, 2019, marked a historic and controversial turning point in the political landscape of Jammu & Kashmir. The Government of India abrogated Article 370, revoking the region’s special status and bifurcating it into two Union Territories.
For the NC and leaders like Ruhullah, this was more than an administrative decision—it was a breach of a constitutional promise made at the time of J&K’s accession. Ruhullah views this abrogation not just as an assault on autonomy, but as an erosion of dignity, democratic federalism, and the spirit of the Indian Constitution.
“The abrogation wasn’t a political difference. It was a constitutional breach,” Ruhullah remarked.
A Measured Response to Statehood Talk
Responding to increasing chatter about the possible tabling of a statehood restoration bill in Parliament, Ruhullah offered a measured but resolute response:
“If the bill is presented, we will talk about it then. But our fight is beyond that.”
While many political actors have welcomed statehood as a milestone, Ruhullah and the NC believe it is merely a partial correction, not a full restoration of rights. For them, the fight remains anchored in the return of constitutional protections that gave J&K a unique federal status within the Indian Union.
Statehood vs. Autonomy: A Crucial Distinction
It’s critical to understand the distinction between statehood and constitutional autonomy. Statehood may bring back an elected legislature and administrative autonomy, but it does not inherently include Article 370 protections or Article 35A, which regulated land ownership, employment, and residency rights specific to Jammu and Kashmir.
Without these, many in the Valley feel that statehood would be symbolic at best, lacking the substance that defined the region’s distinct identity and political safeguards.
NC’s Political Stand: Federalism, Not Fragmentation
Ruhullah’s comments also reinforce the National Conference’s longstanding position that Jammu & Kashmir should remain an integral part of India, but with constitutional dignity intact. The demand is not secessionist, but rather a call for restoring the federal structure envisioned by the founding fathers.
“It is not about separating from India. It’s about returning to the India we acceded to—an India of promises, constitutional protection, and mutual respect,” NC leaders often reiterate.
Future Course: A Movement, Not a Moment
As Parliament gears up for a potential debate on Jammu & Kashmir’s statehood, Ruhullah’s remarks serve as a reminder that the struggle is far from over. For the NC, every resolution, protest, and campaign must align with the larger goal of full restoration of pre-2019 constitutional status.
In the eyes of many, restoring only statehood without Article 370 is akin to giving the body without the soul.
Bottom-Line: Upholding a Sacred Constitutional Pact
Aga Ruhullah Mehdi’s remarks represent more than a policy difference—they highlight a deep philosophical divide in how different political factions envision Jammu & Kashmir’s future. For the National Conference, it’s not about convenience or symbolic victories; it’s about principles, constitutionalism, and justice.
As political forces negotiate their positions ahead of any potential legislative measures, one voice remains unwavering: the NC will continue to demand nothing short of a complete constitutional restoration for Jammu & Kashmir.
