National Conference president Farooq Abdullah delivered a fiery address in Srinagar on July 11, 2026, declaring, “We are not beggars, we are asking for our right.” He demanded the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional and democratic rights, stressing that the people seek dignity, justice, and equality, not charity.
Speaking at Hazratbal, Abdullah recalled past assurances from former Prime Ministers, including P.V. Narasimha Rao and Narendra Modi, noting that promises to bridge the “distance between Delhi and Kashmir” have only widened. He accused rival leaders of betraying Kashmiri interests by acting on Delhi’s directives, warning that those who “sell the honour of their parents” will face consequences.
Highlighting the National Conference’s record, Abdullah pointed to the establishment of schools, colleges, hospitals, and roads under his party’s leadership, asserting that no other political force could have achieved as much under difficult circumstances. He emphasized that Kashmiris are rightful claimants to their constitutional entitlements, not recipients of favors.
His remarks come ahead of the NC’s planned protest at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, on July 20, 2026, coinciding with the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The protest will press for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, a promise repeatedly made by the Centre. Abdullah has also reached out to INDIA bloc leaders and other national parties, urging them to join the demonstration as a collective democratic cause.
By framing the struggle as one of dignity and rights, Abdullah’s statement seeks to rally Kashmiris around justice and constitutional entitlement, while drawing national attention to the statehood issue during a critical political moment.
