Aug 18, 2025: In his Independence Day speech in Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced the campaign. “A people-driven movement to reclaim the democratic rights, constitutional identity, and lost dignity of the people of J&K,” Rana said when he launched the campaign.

"The voices of the common people who have, for too long, awaited the restoration of our statehood are the foundation of this campaign. It is about reclaiming what is rightfully ours,” Rana said, addressing a gathering in Mendhar.

Statehood is our constitutional right and not a privilege. He stated, "It represents our voice, our identity, and our collective future." He stressed that the cause transcends political affiliations and ideological boundaries, and he urged youth, civil society groups, intellectuals, and citizens of all political stripes to actively participate in the movement.

He continued, "Let us stand united for the greater good of our people and our land, above party lines and personal differences." Omar Abdullah will personally visit each of the 90 Assembly constituencies in a major push for the campaign. He will talk directly to the people there and collect signatures in support of the demand.