National/Alive News: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday questioned the Centre’s approach towards Kashmir, claiming that Pakistan was raising the issue internationally and “saving” Kashmiris.
Addressing party workers in Baramulla, Abdullah said, “Look at our neighbour. It is raising the Kashmir issue everywhere. It is saving us; otherwise, our government’s intentions are not right.”
He also urged people to stand up for their rights, warning that their identity could be at risk if they failed to raise their voices against injustice.
“The central government makes big claims and talks about dialogue, but what can you expect from Delhi? Confront it. If you do not, our identity will be erased,” he said.
Calls for Unity and Self-Reliance
Abdullah stressed the need for unity among people to protect their interests. He said Kashmiris must become self-reliant to earn respect and alleged that some political leaders had exploited the people.
He also expressed concern that younger generations were losing touch with history and criticised the growing influence of money in politics.
Abdullah further criticised demolitions in BJP-ruled states, questioning the destruction of homes, settlements and shops.
BJP and VHP Hit Back
The BJP and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) criticised Abdullah’s remarks about Pakistan.
BJP national spokesperson Prem Shukla accused him of making irresponsible statements and alleged that his sympathies towards Pakistan surfaced repeatedly.
VHP leader Vinod Bansal asserted that Jammu and Kashmir was an integral part of India. He questioned Abdullah’s claim that Pakistan was helping Kashmiris and argued that India’s strength was responsible for keeping Pakistan in check.
Abdullah’s Repeated Calls for Dialogue
Abdullah has repeatedly advocated talks between India and Pakistan to address the Kashmir issue and security concerns. In October 2021, he said lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir was impossible without dialogue with Pakistan. He reiterated similar views in 2022 and 2023.
In May 2024, he warned that Pakistan possessed nuclear weapons while commenting on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In May 2025, he also commented on India’s decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.
