Srinagar, Sept. 28 -- Dr S. Bashir Ahmad Veeri

The resolution seeking restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is fundamentally a question of federalism, representative government and the political space available to address regional aspirations. It need not, and should not, be framed as a contest between nationalism and regional identity.

The distinction is important. The resolution adopted by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on June 26, 2000, during the government headed by Dr Farooq Abdullah, was an Autonomy Resolution. It sought restoration of the constitutional position that existed prior to 1953. It was not a demand for restoration of statehood, and the Union Cabinet of the day did not accept it. The present re...