Jammu, February 7 Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma on Saturday dismissed the demand for the restoration of "special status" to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that Article 370 is a "historical provision that has now become obsolete."
Addressing journalists outside the assembly here, Sharma said that the Constitution does not mention "special status" in connection with Jammu and Kashmir's accession or merger with India.
He criticized National Conference (NC) legislators for raising the demand, alleging that it amounted to "betrayal" and was being used for political purposes.
"Several states are demanding special financial packages, but this should not be confused with Article 370," Sharma said.
Commenting on Jammu and Kashmir's budget, the BJP leader accused the ruling party of "mocking daily wage earners and unemployed youth" while focusing on the issue of special status.
Responding to the NC's claims of an increase in terrorist activities following the abrogation of Article 370, Sharma said that official data shows that there was no local terrorist recruitment in 2025.
He also said that the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is imminent and will be granted soon.