National Conference president Farooq Abdullah reaffirmed on Saturday, November 16, 2024, that Jammu and Kashmir will remain an inseparable part of India. Addressing those calling for an independent Kashmir, Abdullah emphasized that such aspirations are “illogical” and urged those behind them to reconsider, citing their lack of understanding of the region’s realities.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a private event in Jammu, Abdullah also commented on the strained India-Pakistan relations, referencing the Indian cricket team’s likely refusal to visit Pakistan for next year’s Champions Trophy. “The fact that the Indian team is unlikely to visit Pakistan is a clear indication of the ongoing tensions between the two countries,” he said.
The former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister also expressed sorrow over the tragic fire at a medical college in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, which claimed the lives of several children. He called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
In response to the recent event organized by Oxford Union titled “This House Believes in the Independent State of Kashmir,” Abdullah dismissed the idea of an independent Kashmir, highlighting the region’s complex geopolitical situation. “It is not easy to be independent. On one side, there’s Pakistan, a nuclear power, and on the other, China, another nuclear power. How can independence be possible under such circumstances? Where is our economy? We are dependent on everything,” he said, adding that those advocating for independence, especially those living abroad, are disconnected from the realities on the ground.
Abdullah firmly reiterated, “We are part of India and will remain so.”
On the topic of sports and politics, Abdullah critiqued the growing intersection between the two, noting that sports has increasingly been politicized. He pointed to the treatment of wrestlers in India, questioning the lack of accountability when a BJP Member of Parliament was in charge of the wrestling body. “What action was taken against him?” he asked, accusing the media of failing to report the truth.
Abdullah called on the media to act independently and speak out without fear of government retribution. “When you’re free, ask me questions,” he urged, stressing the need for journalists to reveal the truth without pressure from political forces.
