Farooq Abdullah Declares Those Wanting Jammu and Kashmir to Join Pakistan Have Failed

Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference (NC), expressed that Pakistan will not succeed in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that those who wished for the region to join Pakistan have not achieved their goals. Abdullah emphasised India's strength lies in its unity amid diversity, urging the need to foster brotherhood and eliminate hatred for the nation's peace and progress.

During his visit to Ragunath market, Abdullah shared his optimism about Jammu and Kashmir's development. He believes that the new government will lead the region towards prosperity in the coming years. "We have to fight terrorism like we have been doing over the years. We have to face this disease and defeat it. Those who wanted us to join Pakistan have failed," Abdullah remarked, hinting at separatists in Kashmir.

Unity and Diversity

Abdullah highlighted the importance of maintaining diversity across India, regardless of religion or language. He stressed that unity is crucial for the country's existence. "We are all Indians and we should stand united otherwise there will be no India," he said. He also mentioned that Jammu and Kashmir is India's crown and will remain so, asserting that Pakistan will never succeed there.

The former chief minister pointed out that religious hatred poses a threat to national unity. He called for its removal to ensure harmony among citizens. Abdullah also expressed his desire to see Jammu and Kashmir progress by improving infrastructure, such as roads and electricity, particularly in smart cities.

Reviving Traditions

Abdullah lamented the loss of Ragunath Bazaar's vibrancy after the Lt Governor halted the darbar move practice in 2022. This bi-annual tradition, initiated by Maharajas, involved government operations alternating between Srinagar and Jammu every six months. "Ragunath market will shine again... Darbar move was introduced with a purpose to strengthen brotherhood and bring the two regions closer to each other," he said, advocating for its revival.

He also expressed hope for job creation to tackle unemployment among youth in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah mentioned that once statehood is restored, local officers would be appointed to top positions. He noted that local officers have effectively managed the state for 75 years.

Future Aspirations

Abdullah recalled Ghulam Nabi Azad's 2019 parliamentary statement comparing Jammu and Kashmir with Gujarat. He noted that Jammu and Kashmir was once a leading state in various sectors but has declined over the past five years. Abdullah is determined to restore its former glory by taking it to new heights.

The NC president remains hopeful about Jammu and Kashmir's future under new governance. He envisions a prosperous region with reduced unemployment through job opportunities for young people. Abdullah's commitment to unity, diversity, and development reflects his vision for a harmonious and thriving Jammu and Kashmir.