Srinagar, July 26: Chairman Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Front (JKPDF) and former minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Wednesday welcomed the decision of the government to hold Panchayat elections by the end of this year and said the assembly elections should also be held on priority in Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement issued here, Hakeem said the upcoming Panchayat elections will play a crucial role in strengthening grassroots democracy and empowering the people of the region. “We also urge the Central government to take further steps to restore the full democratic process and hold Assembly elections in J&K as it is must exercise so that the people can choose their representatives,” he said.
The assembly elections offer an opportunity for people to elect their legislative representatives, who can articulate their concerns and aspirations on a regional level, Yaseen said, adding that the re-establishment of an elected assembly will be a crucial milestone in the journey towards normalcy, progress, and peace in the region.
The former minister said hopes of people are associated with Article 370 and are hopeful that the Supreme Court will provide “justice”. “Those litigators, who filed petitions regarding Article 370 in Supreme Court, should work seriously in this regard. Follow-ups are a must in this case so that justice can be delivered on the ground level,” he said.
The PDF chairman said the abrogation of Article 370 was a significant constitutional move that affected the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. As a responsible political entity, we recognize the sensitivity and complexity of this issue, he said, adding, “The petitions challenging the abrogation deserve careful consideration, and we trust that the Supreme Court will deliberate diligently to ensure a fair and impartial verdict.”
Hakeem added, “The judiciary plays a pivotal role in upholding the democratic fabric of our nation, and we are hopeful that the Supreme Court, as the custodian of justice, will approach these cases with the utmost integrity and adherence to the constitutional principles. We firmly believe that the Supreme Court’s decision will pave the way for a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the entire nation.”
