New Delhi, Aug. 25 -- The Speaker of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, Monday reiterated the call for the early restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the importance of democratic institutions in fulfilling the aspirations of its people.

Speaking to the media on the side-lines of the All India Speakers' Conference in New Delhi, Rather recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurance on the matter, stating, "The Prime Minister himself has assured that Jammu and Kashmir will be granted statehood very soon."

He added, "Democratic institutions are vital for fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and the restoration of statehood will further strengthen that faith in de...