BJP and NC to Hold Competing Protests in J&K Over Statehood and Jobs on July 20
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced statewide protests across Jammu and Kashmir on July 20, the same day the ruling National Conference (NC) plans a sit-in at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to demand restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees. The Congress party in Jammu and Kashmir has extended its support to the NC's protest.
The BJP's protests will focus on what it terms the Jammu and Kashmir government's outsourcing of jobs. A gathering outside the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar is planned. 'J&K's youth deserve merit, not outsourcing and backdoor appointments. We will hold the Civil Secretariat Gherao in Srinagar on July 20 and raise a voice for transparent recruitment and justice for J&K's youth,' said BJP spokesman Manzoor Bhat.
In Jammu, senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma reviewed organizational work and upcoming programs at a meeting with party officials. Sharma reiterated the BJP's position: 'Article 370 is history, and Jammu & Kashmir is moving forward on the path of peace, development, and integration under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.' He accused the NC of trying to divert attention from governance failures by organising the Jantar Mantar protest.
BJP leader and J&K Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi said that restoration of statehood 'would not come through political protests at Jantar Mantar.' She added that the ruling party had failed on its promises and was shifting discourse through demonstrations. Andrabi noted that the Prime Minister and Home Minister have assured statehood will be restored, stating, 'It will return, but not because of a protest at Jantar Mantar.'
The NC, led by former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is preparing for the Delhi protest despite uncertainty over police permission. Abdullah said, 'The venue and manner might change but not the plan to go to Delhi. We will go to Delhi and raise our voice in some corner.' NC leader Nasir Aslam Wani said that those who care for Jammu and Kashmir will join the protest, which will proceed regardless of permission.
Other regional parties have taken varied positions. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), J&K Awami Ittehad Party, and J&K Peoples Conference have not yet decided on participation. J&K Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir confirmed his party's attendance, stating, 'Restoration of Statehood is a people's issue and not a party matter.' Meanwhile, J&K Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari indicated he would not join, arguing that the NC could have demanded statehood earlier, especially after the 2024 mandate.
