Statehood strategy should be evolved collectively, not unilaterally: Altaf Bukhari

Srinagar, Jul 2: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Thursday questioned the National Conference’s proposed Jantar Mantar protest over the restoration of statehood, saying decisions on such important political issues should emerge through consultations among all political parties rather than being taken unilaterally.
Speaking to reporters in Kunzer, Bukhari, said the restoration of statehood remains a common political objective, but the strategy to pursue it should be evolved collectively.
“The decision should have been taken after due consideration among political parties. Then why not? Jammu and Kashmir’s political issues will get resolved only through political considerations and not on somebody’s whims and fancies,” he said.
While questioning the NC’s approach, Bukhari made it clear that his party fully supports the restoration of statehood and would welcome any effort that succeeds in achieving it.
“May Allah give them strength. If they bring back statehood from Jantar Mantar, I will ask the people of Jammu and Kashmir not to stay at home. We should receive them from Lakhanpur on our shoulders. There should be no party differences then. We should welcome that,” he said.
The Apni Party chief said the issue of statehood should rise above political differences and called for a united political approach to address Jammu and Kashmir’s larger constitutional and political concerns. (KNO)