Srinagar, Aug 19: In a bid to woo voters ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, the National Conference (NC) on Monday released its poll manifesto, promising to fight for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s political and legal status. The party’s vice-president, Omar Abdullah, unveiled the manifesto at a press conference in Srinagar, outlining a comprehensive vision for the region’s development and rights.
At the forefront of the NC’s agenda is the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which was revoked in 2019. Abdullah pledged that his party would take all necessary steps to ensure the region’s political and legal status is reinstated, including approaching the Supreme Court if the Government of India delays its promise to restore statehood.
In addition to its commitment to statehood, the NC manifesto promises a range of benefits for the people of J&K, including: 200 units of free electricity per month, Strengthening of the public distribution system to ensure access to essential commodities like sugar and kerosene, Release of political prisoners not involved in heinous crimes.
Omar Abdullah emphasized that his party would be a vocal advocate for the rights of the people of J&K, reminding the Supreme Court of the Government of India’s promise to restore statehood. He also expressed disappointment that Jamaat-e-Islami would not be contesting the polls openly.
The NC vice-president concluded his address by seeking the people’s support, urging them to give his party a chance to serve J&K for the next five years. With the UT set to go to polls in three phases from September 18, and the counting of votes scheduled for October 4, the NC’s manifesto is a significant pitch to voters in the erstwhile State.
