Omar Abdullah on Article 370: ‘Parliament’s Decision, Not God’s – It Can Be Reversed

BUDGAM, Sept 17: National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah emphasized on Tuesday that the abrogation of Article 370 was a decision made by Parliament, not a divine mandate, suggesting that it can be reversed. This response came after Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement during an election rally in Jammu, where he declared that Article 370 is a part of history and will never return to the Indian Constitution.

Abdullah argued that while Shah claims the matter is settled, “nothing is impossible.” He underscored that decisions made by Parliament can be undone, pointing out that if five Supreme Court judges upheld the abrogation, it is conceivable that a seven-judge bench could reinstate Article 370 in the future.

Shifting focus to the rising instances of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah criticized the BJP-led central government, holding them accountable for the resurgence of terror attacks in the region. He questioned the government’s responsibility over the last six years, pointing out incidents such as the attack on pilgrims in Reasi, armed forces personnel facing violence, and the increasing loss of soldiers’ lives in encounters.

Abdullah firmly rejected any claims that the former regional governments should be blamed for the current security situation. He insisted that the BJP, having held control for years, must accept responsibility for the deteriorating situation. “If there’s a spike in terrorism in Jammu, the BJP should be held accountable,” he added.

On the political front, Abdullah expressed confidence in a victory for the NC-Congress alliance in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. He highlighted his active campaigning in Budgam and indicated that momentum will build further now that the first phase of the election campaign has concluded. Abdullah, contesting from both Budgam and Ganderbal constituencies, is determined to secure a clear mandate for the alliance.