Jammu and Kashmir’s major regional parties — the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the National Conference (NC) — hit the streets on Saturday protesting moves to scrap Article 35A, which defines State subject laws.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear three petitions challenging Article 35A on August 6.
Separatists have called for a two-day shutdown on Monday over the issue.
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PDP district president Mohammad Khurshid Alam led the protest in Srinagar. “PDP president Mehboba Mufti’s firm stand as Chief Minister on this Article is well known and in consonance with honour and dignity of the people,” said Mr. Alam.
Leading another protest, senior NC leader Ali Muhammad Sagar said, “An assault on Article 35A was a direct assault on the State’s special status and won’t be tolerated at any cost. All political, social and religious organisations of the State are united in their resolve to fight against these ploys and J&K National Conference will fight this battle from the front lines.”
Protests were also staged by the Jammu Kashmir Democratic Youth Federation, the Tourism Trade Fraternity, Rahul Gandhi’s Fans Association and the All Tribal Coordination Committee.
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