Amritsar, Feb 25 – National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah reiterated his hope for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood while addressing reporters after offering prayers at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Tuesday.
Speaking on the importance of unity in the country, Abdullah condemned the divisive atmosphere in India, asserting that Bharat belongs to every citizen, regardless of religion.
“It is very unfortunate. Bharat belongs to everyone—Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Jains, and even those who do not follow any religion. The fire that has been ignited is purely political, aimed at securing votes. It should never have happened. Bharat will remain united as long as we stand together,” he remarked.
Responding to concerns about the challenges faced by minorities, Abdullah underscored the necessity of collective strength in addressing such issues.
“Whenever any Bharatiya faces difficulties, we must stand together. It has happened in the past, and it will happen again today,” he asserted.
When questioned about the current status of Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah expressed disappointment over its downgrade to a Union Territory.
“It is no longer a state. It has been reduced to a Union Territory. But we hope that statehood will be restored soon,” he said.
On the situation in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, Abdullah urged people to visit the region to witness the ground realities firsthand.
He further criticized the central government’s approach, stating that every state has its own unique challenges, which are often overlooked by those in power.
“Every state has its own problems, but the central government fails to understand them. If we truly wish to keep India united, we must acknowledge and address the pain of every citizen. US President Donald Trump spoke about ‘America First’—why don’t we say ‘India First’?” he questioned.
The restoration of Article 370, reinstatement of statehood, and implementation of the autonomy resolution remain central promises of the National Conference’s manifesto for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections.
The BJP-led Central government abrogated Article 370 in August 2019, revoking Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. While the move was hailed by the ruling party as a step toward greater integration with India, regional political parties, including the National Conference, continue to advocate for its reversal and the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy.
Abdullah’s remarks come at a time when political debates around Jammu and Kashmir’s future remain at the forefront, with growing demands from opposition leaders for the restoration of its full statehood and democratic rights.