Hundreds of protesters gathered in New Delhi to demand the restoration of statehood for Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), marking one of the biggest political demonstrations on the issue since the region lost its special status in 2019. The protest was led by IIOJK Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who accused the Indian government of denying the people their democratic rights and political identity.
The demonstrators carried placards, raised slogans, and attempted to march through the capital to highlight their demand. However, Delhi Police prevented the group from moving forward, stopping the planned demonstration before it could continue. Despite the restrictions, protesters remained vocal, insisting that the restoration of statehood should no longer be delayed.
Speaking after the protest, Omar Abdullah described the demonstration as the beginning of a larger movement. He stated that the people of IIOJK would continue their peaceful campaign until their rights, dignity, and statehood were restored. According to Abdullah, the protest reflects the growing frustration among residents who believe promises made by the central government have not been fulfilled.
The issue dates back to August 2019, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government revoked the region’s limited autonomy, removed its statehood, and reorganized the territory into two federally administered regions: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Since then, the Indian government has repeatedly said that statehood would be restored at an appropriate time, but no official timeline has been announced.
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, led by Abdullah, continues to press for an early restoration of statehood, arguing that it is essential for democratic governance and public representation. Meanwhile, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have criticized the protest, claiming it is an attempt to shift public attention away from what they describe as governance shortcomings of Abdullah’s administration.
The latest demonstration has once again brought the issue of IIOJK statehood into the political spotlight, with supporters calling for immediate action while the central government maintains its existing position.
