New Delhi: CPI leader and national secretary of the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) Annie Raja demanded the restoration of peace in Jammu and Kashmir during a demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. She stated that normal life remained affected across the valley for consecutive 75 days as the locals face difficulties following the modification of Article 370.
While speaking to ETV Bharat, Annie said, "The decision to abrogate Article 370 from valley was taken by the Central Government against the will of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, hence it should be withdrew by the government. The communication and transport system is not working smoothly, due to which women and children, in particular, are facing difficulties."
She further said, "We demand that all the paramilitary and Army personnel should be removed immediately from the valley because the locals are being persecuted by them."
Social activist and scientist Gauhar Raza also interacted with ETV Bharat and asserted that after the modification of Article 370 from the state, the Central Government has instilled the fear among the people and has given the message that in future, other states can also be given second status.
Gauhar said, "The government has suppressed the voice of the people of the valley. If government want to provide jobs to the youth, then removing Section 370 is not the right way."
On being questioned on terrorists attack on apple traders after the removal of Section 370, Gauhar replied, "One portion of valley belonged to terrorists also but post removal of Article 370, the government has strengthened their hands."
He also said that 80% of the people of Jammu and Kashmir were with India for 70 years however the government has broken their trust.
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