Srinagar, Nov 12: Senior politician Dr. Farooq Abdullah has stated that terrorism will ultimately fail in Kashmir, dismissing the notion that militancy can be used to seize the region. His remarks come in the wake of recent attacks, including the incident in Kishtwar where two Special Police Officers (SPOs) were targeted, underscoring the continued presence of militant activities.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Dr. Abdullah, President of the National Conference, addressed reporters on Thursday, acknowledging that despite claims to the contrary, terrorism persists in the region. He emphasized the need to identify and implement strategies to eradicate it effectively. He noted that the recent incidents, such as the attack in Kishtwar, serve as stark reminders that such acts continue to occur, leaving an element of unpredictability regarding the next target.
Responding to assertions of normalcy following the abrogation of Article 370, Abdullah maintained that while terrorism continues to be a reality, citizens should not succumb to fear. He reiterated Kashmir’s enduring status as an integral part of India, stating, “Kashmir was, is, and will remain a part of India. They can do whatever they have to do.”
Addressing the issue of Pakistan, Abdullah recounted past reminders of the country’s involvement in conflict. He highlighted historical instances of violence and suffering, suggesting that Pakistan’s persistent focus on Kashmir, without resorting to constructive dialogue, will not yield resolutions. Citing international examples like the conflicts in Iran-America and Ukraine, he pointed out that wars lead to widespread destruction, and ultimately, dialogue emerges as the path to resolution.
“I always tell Pakistan – stop terrorism. Nothing will come out of this. Adopt the path of dialogue, through which a way out can be found. We were both parts of one country,” Abdullah urged. He drew a parallel with post-war Europe, where Germany, once responsible for widespread destruction, is now integrated with a unified currency and outlook. He advocated for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), originally initiated by Indira Gandhi, as a platform for regional countries to convene, resolve issues, and foster progress collaboratively. However, he stressed that violent action and diplomatic engagement cannot coexist, stating, “But bullets and talks cannot go together.”
When questioned about Sonia Gandhi’s book, Abdullah stated he had not yet read it and therefore could not offer any comments.
The Chenab Times News Desk
