Srinagar, Jun 11 (JKNS): National Conference President and former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah on Thursday urged the United Nations Human Rights Committee to investigate the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), alleging that people there are facing hardships and reports of civilian killings have emerged.
Speaking to reporters, as per news agency JKNS, Dr Abdullah said, “I appeal to the United Nations Human Rights Committee to go there, investigate the situation and understand the difficulties the people are facing. The world should know what they are going through.”
Commenting on the political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the veteran NC leader said stability would come when the aspirations and dignity of the people are respected.
“It will be stable when people realise that we are human beings and that our honour and rights must be restored,” he said.
Responding to questions on governance, Dr Abdullah alleged that the elected government does not enjoy adequate powers.
“The powers are divided. Most of the powers are with the Lieutenant Governor, whereas an elected government should have the authority to govern,” he said.
On the issue of restoration of statehood, the National Conference president reiterated that his party would continue its constitutional and democratic struggle.
“We are already fighting for it and will continue to do so. It is our constitutional right to protest for what has been taken away from us,” he said.
Asked about calls for a united movement on statehood, Dr Abdullah said all political parties were broadly on the same page regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
“We are all united as far as statehood is concerned,” he added. (JKNS)
