Farooq Abdullah says those seeking to divide Jammu and Kashmir have failed

• Jammu to benefit most from Secretariat reopening, says Farooq Abdullah

JAMMU, Nov 3: National Conference president and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Monday said that those who had sought to create divisions between Jammu and Kashmir had “failed,” asserting that the Union Territory remains united in spirit and purpose. His remarks came as government offices reopened in Jammu under the revived ‘Darbar Move’ tradition, marking the seasonal transition of the civil secretariat from Srinagar to Jammu.

Speaking to reporters after attending the reopening ceremony, Dr. Abdullah said the re-establishment of the Secretariat in Jammu symbolizes unity and shared identity across the Union Territory. “Those who wanted to separate Jammu and Kashmir have failed today. Jammu and Kashmir are one and will continue to remain one,” he said, while urging all communities to focus on peace, cooperation, and development instead of division.

Taking a swipe at political opponents, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party, Dr. Abdullah said that leaders who continue to politicize regional identity should instead dedicate their energy to public service. “Those who are trying to make this a political issue should leave politics if they cannot work for the people’s welfare. It is time to move beyond rhetoric and work together for progress,” he remarked.

The former chief minister expressed optimism that Jammu would benefit greatly from the Secretariat’s reopening, noting that the move has historical and administrative importance. “This state has seen destruction, wars, and countless challenges. Now is the time to rebuild it with determination and unity,” he said, emphasizing that cooperation between the two regions is vital for inclusive development. He also expressed confidence that the presence of the administration in Jammu would accelerate local growth, create new opportunities, and strengthen civic engagement.

Dr. Abdullah congratulated the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other local trade bodies for warmly welcoming the return of the offices. “I express my gratitude to the people of Jammu, especially the business community, for supporting this step and extending a warm welcome to the move. It shows their commitment to the shared progress of our Union Territory,” he added.

As Chief Minister Omar Abdullah walked through Residency Road and Raghunath Bazar, various trader associations and members of the public gathered to greet him with flowers and applause, acknowledging his role in reviving the century-old Darbar Move system. The practice, originally initiated by Maharaja Hari Singh, was discontinued in 2021 by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration but has now been reinstated, symbolizing continuity and connection between the twin capitals.

Calling the revival a “big step” in reinforcing unity, Dr. Abdullah said the move was not merely administrative but symbolic of the shared heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. “This move means that the people of Jammu and Kashmir see themselves as one. Regardless of religion or language, we belong to the same land and the same destiny,” he said.

Responding to questions on broader political developments, the National Conference president said that the Darbar Move’s revival was a long-pending public demand that has now been fulfilled. He expressed confidence that other public issues would also be addressed in due course. “We are hopeful that the remaining demands of the people will be fulfilled gradually within the next four years,” he stated.

Speaking about the upcoming assembly bypolls in Jammu and Kashmir scheduled for November 11, Dr. Abdullah sounded confident about his party’s prospects. “Everyone hopes that the elections will be good. We too are hopeful that they will be better for us. Our expectations are positive,” he said with a smile.