The Kashmir Dialogues
Srinagar,16 August: National Loktantrik Party (NLP) Central Kashmir Incharge Yakub Dunoo expressed his views on the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) recent announcement of the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir. In a statement issued here, Dunoo reflected on the long-awaited decision, emphasizing the significant political changes that have taken place in the region.
“The people of Jammu & Kashmir have been expecting this announcement for many years,” Dunoo remarked. He lamented the loss of the region’s special status, referring to the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, which previously granted autonomy and special privileges to the state. “Alas! We lost our identity, our statehood, and since 2019, we have been under what I call a ‘Babu Raj’—a dictatorship,” he added.
Yakub Dunoo criticized the current political structure, highlighting that with the Lieutenant Governor (LG) holding significant power, the role of the Chief Minister could be reduced to that of a “clerk,” with Cabinet Ministers relying heavily on the LG for decisions. Despite this, Dunoo expressed hope for a change, stating, “However, people will witness a public government, and the Babu Era will come to an end.”
His comments reflect the broader concerns and aspirations of many in the region as they prepare for the first assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370.
Sheikh Sameer
M S Nazki
