The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans for a series of peaceful protests to be held across all district headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5. The demonstrations are intended to advocate for the restoration of Article 370, which previously granted special status to the region, and to underscore the party’s dedication to upholding the constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
PDP President Mehbooba Mufti revealed the protest schedule during a press conference in Srinagar. She also reiterated the party’s long-standing demands, including the immediate release of all political prisoners and detainees. Furthermore, the PDP called for an end to what they allege is the misuse of preventive detention laws and urged for the implementation of time-bound, fair trials in cases registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that these demands are central to the party’s current political agenda.
The announcement follows the PDP’s 27th Foundation Day, during which the party unanimously adopted a political resolution. This resolution reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the foundational principles and the vision of its founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. The resolution explicitly restated the PDP’s dedication to a peaceful and constitutional resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. It also re-emphasized the party’s ongoing democratic struggle aimed at restoring Article 370, Article 35A, and the constitutional safeguards that once defined the erstwhile state’s special status.
In addition to the restoration of constitutional provisions, the PDP’s resolution also stressed the urgent need for the immediate release of political prisoners and detainees. The party expressed concern over the alleged misuse of preventive detention laws and demanded the restoration of democratic rights, civil liberties, and the rule of law within the region. The PDP pledged to safeguard the rights, identity, dignity, and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir through constitutional and peaceful methods.
The resolution further outlined the party’s commitment to reopening historic roads, cross-LoC routes, and traditional trade and travel links. The objective behind these proposals is to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a bridge connecting South and Central Asia, fostering regional connectivity and economic development. The PDP also reiterated its commitment to facilitating the dignified return, rehabilitation, and secure resettlement of Kashmiri Pandits and other displaced communities, emphasizing a holistic approach to addressing the region’s complex social fabric.
As part of its broader democratic program, the PDP resolved to observe August 5 through these peaceful, district-level protests. These demonstrations are intended to serve as a reaffirmation of the party’s commitment to restoring the region’s constitutional position and defending democratic and federal principles. The party emphasized its adherence to peaceful and constitutional means in pursuing these objectives.
Concluding its resolution, the PDP pledged to continue its peaceful and democratic struggle for the restoration of constitutional rights, democratic freedoms, federal values, and the dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Drawing inspiration from the vision and legacy of its founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, the party reaffirmed its commitment to building a future for the Union Territory that is founded on justice, reconciliation, peace, dignity, and hope for every citizen.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.