India, Aug. 14 -- National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday said the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is an indispensable first step towards rebuilding democratic institutions and restoring the constitutional and democratic rights of the people.

Abdullah made these remarks while addressing a gathering here.

The three-time chief minister described the restoration of statehood as one of the "most urgent necessities" before J-K.

"Restoration of statehood is an indispensable first step towards rebuilding democratic institutions and restoring the constitutional and democratic rights of the people," he said.

He also expressed concern over continuing wars, violence, oppression, human rights violations and ex...