THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, February 17: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday appealed for national unity to safeguard peace, democracy and the dignity of the people of Kashmir, delivering an emotional address at the valedictory session of Vision-2031, an international seminar on development and democracy organised by the Kerala State Planning Commission.
Speaking before an audience that included Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Abdullah urged citizens across the country to stand together in support of harmony and constitutional values. His speech, marked by visible emotion, drew a warm response from Vijayan, who greeted him with an embrace after he concluded his remarks.
Abdullah spoke about the hardships faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and called for empathy and solidarity. He expressed concern over social divisions and the atmosphere of mistrust that he believes has deepened in recent years. Referring to students and youth from the region, he said they often face prejudice and stigma outside the state. He questioned when such circumstances would end and appealed for an environment where people can “walk freely, talk freely and think freely,” describing these freedoms as the essence of democracy.
At 90 years of age, Abdullah said he undertook the journey to Kerala to seek understanding and moral support from fellow citizens. He remarked that southern states continue to offer an example of social harmony and development and hoped that such unity would remain intact. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir draw strength from regions where pluralism and mutual respect continue to thrive.
The National Conference leader also raised economic concerns, particularly regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s dependence on horticulture and tourism. Referring to India’s trade engagement with the United States, he expressed apprehension over potential impacts on apple, walnut and almond growers, stating that clarity from the Union Government was still awaited. He questioned how local producers would cope if imported goods entered the domestic market in larger quantities.
Abdullah criticised what he described as excessive centralisation of powers and expressed dissatisfaction over the functioning of Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory. He stated that legislative decisions often remain pending and that administrative processes require greater clarity. He reiterated his long-standing demand for restoration of statehood and meaningful federal balance, emphasising that India’s constitutional framework envisions shared powers between the Centre and states.
Touching upon security concerns, Abdullah said the abrogation of Article 370 had been projected as a solution to terrorism but argued that violence has not completely disappeared. He referred to past incidents in Pulwama, Pahalgam and Udhampur, asking whether the promise of lasting peace had been fulfilled.
Throughout his speech, Abdullah underscored the need to protect India’s democratic ethos. He said the country’s freedom struggle was fought to build an inclusive nation where diversity would be respected. He voiced concern that polarisation and mistrust weaken that foundation. Invoking the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, he remarked that the ideals of unity, tolerance and equality must be upheld.
Abdullah also praised Kerala’s development trajectory, noting its progress in poverty reduction and social welfare despite fiscal constraints. He commended the state’s efforts to respect all communities and maintain social cohesion.
Concluding his address, Abdullah reiterated his appeal for solidarity and mutual understanding, urging citizens across India to support efforts aimed at restoring peace, dignity and democratic confidence in Jammu and Kashmir.