Srinagar | WTNS | June 22:O.P. Shah, Chairman of the Centre for Peace and Progress, has called for the immediate restoration of statehood and the holding of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. During his visit to Kashmir.

O.P Shah told that he has met with people from various walks of life, including students, political leaders, and other stakeholders, all of whom demand urgent assembly elections and the restoration of statehood.

Prominent Indian political analyst and track II diplomat O.P Shah  said that the recent Lok Sabha elections conveyed two clear messages: the people of Kashmir have faith in democracy and want to express their desires through elections, and their high turnout showed their dissatisfaction over not being consulted about the abrogation of Article 370.

He stated that the people of Kashmir have reinforced India’s identity as a secular, socialistic, and democratic nation.

“My desire was that elections should have been held four years ago, but now there is no reason to delay elections in Kashmir. It will strengthen the trust of people in Indian democracy and the constitution. If elections are not held immediately, there will be a decrease in the trust of people in Indian democracy,” Shah said.

Shah said during his visit, he met with many people such as Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Farooq Abdullah, G.H. Mir, M.Y. Tarigami, as well as lawyers, journalists, and other stakeholders.

He reiterated the need for fair and free elections, the restoration of statehood, and dialogue with the people, emphasizing that these steps are essential for democracy.(KNS)