Overview
- The National Conference has scheduled a protest at Jantar Mantar to press for restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, with leaders and workers travelling to Delhi ahead of the July 20 event.
- Authorities have not confirmed permission for the gathering and NC leaders, including Omar Abdullah, have said they will go ahead regardless if clearance is withheld.
- PDP president Mehbooba Mufti has declined to join unless the protest formally demands restoration of Article 370, release of political prisoners, and lifting the ban on Jamaat‑e‑Islami, making her participation conditional.
- Two regional parties, the Peoples Conference and the Apni Party, have ruled out joining, while the Congress and the CPI(M) have signalled support, leaving the final attendee list and turnout uncertain.
- Critics argue that limiting the drive to statehood risks normalising the August 5, 2019 revocation of special status and sidelining wider grievances such as detentions, job dismissals, institutional bans and disputed rights.