Srinagar, 15-02-2024: National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah declared on Thursday that the party will independently contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This announcement follows a period of uncertainty regarding seat sharing within the opposition INDIA alliance in Jammu and Kashmir, where the NC is one of the three constituent parties alongside the Congress and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Addressing the media in Srinagar, Abdullah affirmed, “Our party will contest seats on its own and there is no doubt about it. I think both parliamentary and Assembly elections will happen at the same time. We will fight on our strength.”
Regarding the situation with Pakistan, the Member of Parliament from Srinagar emphasized the necessity of a stable neighbor for India’s well-being. “A stable Pakistan is necessary for the whole of India and an unstable Pakistan is not good for India,” he asserted.
Reflecting on the longstanding conflict in the region, Abdullah lamented the loss of countless innocent lives over the years. Stressing the significance of peace, he remarked, “The neighboring country should also realize that peace is a must.”
Abdullah also addressed the ongoing farmers’ agitation, urging the government to approach it with empathy. He criticized the handling of the situation, citing the contentious farm bills that sparked widespread protests and resulted in the tragic deaths of hundreds of farmers. Expressing hope for a more judicious approach from the government as the general elections approach, Abdullah underscored the importance of addressing the concerns of the farming community.
Commenting on the recent Supreme Court decision regarding electoral bonds, Abdullah welcomed the move, asserting that it would ensure a level playing field for all political parties. He called for transparency, urging the ruling party to disclose the sources of its funding and the extent of its financial resources.
Abdullah also condemned the targeted killings of non-local laborers, denouncing them as heinous crimes. Drawing from his own experiences and those of his party members, who have faced violence and persecution, he called for an end to such senseless acts of violence.
Regarding the Enforcement Directorate’s summons to him, Abdullah brushed it off as routine, stating, “I am under ED scanner. What do I say! I was also called recently and I will soon depose at their office.”
In his statements, Farooq Abdullah exhibited a commitment to political autonomy for the NC, emphasized the importance of stable regional relations, advocated for empathy towards farmers, called for transparency in political financing, and condemned violence against innocent civilians.