Hakeem extends I-Day greetings, reiterates statehood restoration call

Srinagar, Aug 15: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) president and former minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Friday extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, wishing peace, prosperity, and harmony for all.In his message, Yaseen paid rich tribute to the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and the people of Jammu and Kashmir who, he said, have always upheld the ideals of justice, dignity, and democracy. “This day is a reminder of the price paid for our freedom and the responsibilities that come with it,” he said in a statement issued here.The PDF chief reiterated his long-standing demand for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status and full statehood. “We are waiting for the day when we can celebrate Independence Day under an open atmosphere, like citizens in other states. We appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to fulfil their commitments on restoring statehood to J&K at the earliest,” he said.Hakeem urged the Union government to take concrete steps in the current Parliamentary session to address the political and constitutional aspirations of the people.“Restoration of statehood should not be delayed any further. It must be done through dialogue, consensus, and in the spirit of democracy. This is essential for lasting peace, political stability, and development in the region,” he stressed.He criticised certain political parties for “contesting the matter in the Supreme Court for their own interests, without keeping the public fully informed of the developments”. The people of J&K deserve transparency, participation, and respect for their sentiments, he said.The former minister said the Centre must recognise the deep emotional, historical, and cultural significance of J&K’s special status and take urgent measures to bridge the trust deficit. “We need confidence-building measures, political outreach, and economic initiatives to truly integrate our youth into the country’s growth story,” he said.Reiterating his appeal for peace and unity, the PDF president said that all stakeholders must come together to work for prosperity, social justice, and the protection of people’s rights. “We believe in resolving issues through dialogue, not confrontation. The government must open its doors to meaningful political engagement,” he said.Hakeem called on the people of Jammu & Kashmir to uphold the values of freedom, secularism, and brotherhood while continuing their peaceful struggle for constitutional rights and dignity.