Srinagar, Sep 28 (KNS): Budgam MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi on Monday said the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly must address the constitutional concerns of the people, asserting that public trust cannot be sustained if key issues remain unspoken.

Speaking during a discussion in the Assembly, Muntazir called for a united and sustained political effort for restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, full statehood and constitutional guarantees, including issues relating to Articles 370 and 35A.

“We cannot ask people to trust this House and then leave their deepest constitutional concerns unspoken. The record must be clear,” Muntazir said while referring to his amendment seeking an explicit mention of the events of August 5, 2019 in the statehood resolution moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

He said the Assembly carried the weight of public expectations and had a responsibility to give political expression to the aspirations and concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The people have placed their trust in this House. They are watching us, and if we fail to live up to their expectations, they will hold us accountable,” he said.

Muntazir also raised concerns over what he described as policies pursued after the abrogation of Article 370, including alleged interference in religious affairs, and praised religious leaders for raising their voice on such issues.

Highlighting concerns of the youth, the Budgam MLA said denial of opportunities was a serious matter requiring political attention.

“Our youth are watching as well. Their future must be at the centre of our politics, and this House has a responsibility to speak for their aspirations,” he said.

Muntazir reiterated support for restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, full statehood and constitutional guarantees, saying the Assembly must demonstrate that the trust reposed in it by the people had meaning. (KNS)