Srinagar, August 20, 2025 : The National Conference (NC) on Wednesday demanded a “relook” at certain provisions of the three bills introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, calling them “draconian” and against democratic principles.
“Some provisions of the bills are draconian. These will be opposed tooth and nail,” NC state spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar said, expressing hope that the government would address the genuine concerns of the opposition.
He added that the bills are being referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), and the party expects opposition concerns to be taken seriously there as well.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariq Karra alleged that the bills expose the “authoritarian character” of the Centre.
“Instead of restoring J&K’s statehood and strengthening federal principles, the ruling dispensation is tightening the noose around chief ministers and ministers of states,” Karra told reporters after paying tributes to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary.
Accusing the Centre of showing an “anti-J&K mindset,” Karra said: “They played with the identity of J&K, snatched constitutional guarantees, and took away protection of land, resources, and jobs. Now, instead of respecting the aspirations of people, they are again showcasing their authoritarian approach.”
On whether Congress would support Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s signature campaign for restoration of statehood, Karra clarified that while Congress and NC share an alliance, the two parties follow their own manifestos and strategies.
“We have our own agenda and manifesto. The NC has theirs. The aim is the same — restoration of statehood — but we have launched our struggle independently, without any compulsions of being in government,” Karra said.
