Baramulla, Jul 07 (KNO): Cabinet minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday said the National Conference (NC) would respond to those questioning the party's strength during its July 11 programme, while maintaining that the demand for the restoration of statehood is a common cause that deserves support from all political parties, irrespective of their affiliations.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the convention at Rafiabad, Minister Dar, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), dismissed claims that the NC had weakened politically and said the party's critics would get their answer through the events planned on July 11.
"Those claiming the National Conference is nowhere will be answered on July 11. Let them see on July 11 and get their answer there," he said.
Dar said the NC's proposed protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, seeking the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, was not a party-centric programme but a collective movement aimed at safeguarding the aspirations of the people.
"We are inviting those who are part of the NDA or the UPA, and even those who are not, besides political parties in Jammu and Kashmir. Statehood is a common cause for all and not for any single party," he said.
He said the issue of statehood should unite all political parties and stakeholders, adding that the National Conference expects broad participation in the protest irrespective of political differences.
The minister said the National Conference enjoys strong support among the youth, which was evident during the Assembly elections. He said the party's youth wing has been working actively at the grassroots level to strengthen the organisation.
"We have enough youth, as seen during the elections as well. Our youth wing is working hard. We believe the youth are the future and should come forward and work shoulder to shoulder, as they can play a vital role," he said.
Dar announced that the National Conference will observe July 11 with Fatiha Khwani at the “Sheikh Mazaar” in remembrance of Begum Sahiba. "Party president Dr Farooq Abdullah will participate in the programme and address party workers from different constituencies," he said—(KNO)