National desk
6 September
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
National Conference President Farooq Abdullah declared that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are the true owners of their land and not subservient to the central government. Speaking to reporters in Birwah, Budgam district, Abdullah emphasized, “We are not their slaves. The people of this state are the real owners of this place.” His comments were in response to questions about the possible restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood after upcoming assembly elections.
Abdullah, who was in Birwah to support the party candidate filing nomination papers, took a strong stance against BJP supporters in Kashmir. He warned them of a looming political storm, saying, “I have asked the flatterers of the BJP to wake up from sleep. A storm will come, and they will have to face it.”
Regarding some leaders leaving the National Conference, Abdullah downplayed the situation, stating that such moves are normal during election periods. He also addressed allegations about separatists contesting elections, suggesting that questions about pro-Pakistan slogans should be directed at those responsible for such actions.
On the topic of dialogue between India and Pakistan, Abdullah clarified that any discussions would need to be conducted by the Prime Ministers of the two countries, not by him. Meanwhile, Sajjad Lone, President of the People’s Conference, expressed his party’s support for any resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly advocating for the restoration of Article 370, which granted special status to the region.
Farooq Abdullah’s statements highlight the ongoing tensions and complex political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the context of its relationship with the central government and regional political dynamics.