29-07-2023 : Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference (NC), expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in strife-torn Manipur and emphasized the urgent need for peace in the region. Speaking on behalf of the opposition parties, Abdullah called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the Manipur situation in Parliament promptly. The gravity of the matter led to a delegation comprising 21 MPs from the opposition bloc INDIA undertaking a visit to Imphal to assess the ground realities firsthand. The primary objective of their visit is to interact with the victims of the ethnic clashes that erupted in the northeastern state on May 3.
Addressing reporters, Farooq Abdullah acknowledged the importance of the delegation’s visit to Manipur, expressing hope that upon their return, they would provide valuable insights into the prevailing situation. The foremost concern remains the establishment of peace, allowing the residents of Manipur to live their lives without fear or conflict. Abdullah stressed the significance of communal harmony and unity among all communities residing in the region, underlining that a sustainable solution can only be achieved when each community is treated with dignity and respect.
The NC president also expressed anguish over a recent video that emerged, depicting the horrifying parade of two women in Manipur. The distressing video reflects the ongoing turmoil and violence, leaving Abdullah deeply troubled. He called upon all to pray for divine intervention to alleviate the difficult circumstances prevailing in the region. In this context, Abdullah expressed his hope for the Prime Minister to address the Manipur situation in Parliament, seeking smooth and constructive discussions that would contribute to effective solutions.
Switching the focus to Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah highlighted a significant development – the administration’s decision to permit the Muharram procession in the city after a hiatus of 35 years. He noted that there was no valid reason to deny this tradition in the past, but some individuals from within the community were against it. Abdullah refrained from naming them, considering their passing, but questioned the rationale behind the past prohibition.
Drawing from his own experiences, Abdullah recalled his tenure as chief minister when he earnestly desired the Muharram procession to take place. He personally participated in the procession, witnessing the collective support and warm greetings from people of all faiths, including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs. However, he lamented that the iconic Zuljanah, a significant element of the tradition, is still not allowed to follow its traditional route.
In an optimistic outlook, Farooq Abdullah expressed his belief that under a people’s government, the Zuljanah procession would eventually be restored to its grand traditional route, signifying the inclusive and harmonious cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir.