Not taking oath till statehood restored to J&K: G A Mir

Srinagar, October 16: Senior Congress leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir today reiterated the party’s principal stand on the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the Congress will not take the oath of office until statehood is fully restored.

Mir emphasized that this position is non-negotiable and reflects the party’s commitment to the rights of the people of J&K, he spoke exclusively to KNS.

Addressing rumors suggesting discord between the Congress and its alliance partner, the National Conference (NC), over ministerial portfolios, Mir firmly dispelled such claims. "We did not contest this election for power but to restore the rights of the people. The question of ministerial posts is irrelevant at this point. Our priority remains the restoration of statehood," Mir stated.

He called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honor the mandate given by the people, which Mir believes clearly indicates a desire for the return of statehood. "The people have spoken, and the Prime Minister should respect their will," he added.

Mir also clarified that despite not taking the oath immediately, the Congress remains an integral part of the government. "We are fully aligned with our allies in the India bloc, including leaders such as Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi, and we are committed to working together to achieve our collective goals," he said. (KNS)