The National Conference (NC) is strategically refocusing on the restoration of special status for Jammu and Kashmir, a move intended to counter emerging narratives that the party is aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or abandoning its core principles. This renewed emphasis comes at a crucial time, as the NC navigates the complex political landscape of the region and seeks to reaffirm its commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The NC's Central Working Committee, in a recent meeting in Srinagar, unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming its dedication to restoring Jammu and Kashmir's special status. The party views this issue as central to the aspirations and dignity of the region's residents, emphasizing that it must be addressed without delay. The resolution underscores the NC's determination to continue its "principled fight" for the full restoration of this status.

In addition to special status, the NC is also advocating for the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The party urges the Indian government to honor its commitment made on the floor of Parliament, which has been repeatedly affirmed in the public domain and noted by the Supreme Court.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that restoring statehood would place the responsibility for security with the elected government, potentially preventing future terror attacks. He questioned whether attacks like those in Pahalgam or Delhi occurred when the NC was responsible for security, highlighting his six-year tenure as Chief Minister without such incidents.

The NC has voiced concerns regarding the safety and well-being of students, traders, and residents of Jammu and Kashmir in various parts of the country. The party has condemned the selective targeting of Kashmiris and has called upon state governments across India to ensure their safety, dignity, and protection. The NC has emphasized that "not every Kashmiri is a terrorist or a supporter of terror".

To counter claims of aligning with the BJP, NC functionaries have stressed the importance of maintaining a working relationship with the central government, while firmly denying any alignment with the BJP.

The NC's renewed focus on special status and statehood comes amid a backdrop of political maneuvering and allegations. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, NC Additional General Secretary, has accused the BJP of "cheap and negative politics" and betraying the mandate of the people of Jammu. He criticized the BJP for failing to secure a special financial package for Jammu and accused the party of attacking the NC to cover up its failures.

The NC's initiatives include seeking the release of Kashmiri youth lodged in jails and addressing the issue of unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir. The party has also reiterated its commitment to fulfilling the promises made in its manifesto, viewing them as obligations to the public.