Srinagar, Oct 12: Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference (NC), emphasized that the foremost task for the new government in Jammu and Kashmir will be to bridge the divide between the people of Jammu and Kashmir, erasing the “hatred” that he claims was exacerbated during the recent Assembly elections. Abdullah made these remarks on Saturday while attending Dussehra celebrations, underscoring his party’s commitment to fostering unity in the Union Territory.
Abdullah stated, “Our first priority will be to unite Jammu and Kashmir and eliminate the animosity that was propagated during this election cycle.” He highlighted that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a significant item on the new government’s agenda, reflecting the NC’s long-standing demand for greater autonomy.
The NC-Congress alliance has positioned itself to form the government following a decisive electoral victory. This coalition has garnered support from various parties, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and several Independent legislators. Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah has already reached out to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, urging for a swift scheduling of the swearing-in ceremony.
When questioned about the restoration of statehood, Farooq Abdullah confirmed that it is a priority for the new administration. “We are actively advocating for the restoration of statehood so that the government can effectively serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.
In August 2019, the BJP-led central government abrogated Article 370, which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and restructured the state into Union territories. Abdullah framed Dussehra, a festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, as a reminder of the power of truth over deception. “This festival teaches us that lies are ultimately defeated and the truth prevails. We witnessed the metaphorical flames of falsehood consumed by the fire of truth,” he remarked.
This year marked a significant moment for Abdullah as it was the first time he was invited to participate in the Dussehra celebrations since his tenure as a Member of Parliament. He expressed gratitude for the invitation, recalling his father’s legacy and the communal spirit that once characterized these festivities. “We miss our Hindu brothers who used to join us in celebrating. I hope that next year we can fill that void,” he said.
Moreover, Abdullah advocated for the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley, stating, “It is time for our brothers and sisters who left Kashmir to come back and reclaim their homes.” He assured that the new government would implement measures to facilitate their return, highlighting that the NC is dedicated to addressing the concerns of all communities, including those in Jammu.
“We aim to ensure that every resident of Jammu and Kashmir, be they Dogra, Punjabi, or Kashmiri, feels empowered and valued. Discrimination has no place in our governance,” Abdullah asserted.
Regarding the upcoming oath-taking ceremony, he confirmed that leaders from the INDIA bloc have been invited, pending confirmation of the date. In response to a query about Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid’s meeting with the LG concerning the release of political prisoners, Abdullah quipped, “He should focus on securing his own release first before discussing others.”