Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) President Dr. Farooq Abdullah has expressed concerns about internal threats to India’s unity, emphasizing the importance of countering divisive narratives to ensure the nation’s future.
Unity Over External Threats
Addressing a gathering at the NC headquarters, Dr. Abdullah stated, “The country demands sacrifice even today to save itself. India does not face a threat from outside but from within. People inside the country can destroy it, not those from outside.” He stressed the need for collective strength, saying, “To make the nation strong, we must make ourselves, our brothers, and our sisters strong.”
Critique of Divisive Propaganda
Dr. Abdullah criticized divisive propaganda, particularly the narrative that Hindus are under threat. He remarked, “There are 80 per cent Hindus in this country, so where is the threat? This narrative is meant to create fear among people. It is everyone’s duty to break this falsehood.”
Historical Context and Economic Concerns
Reflecting on historical narratives, Dr. Abdullah recalled misinformation during his tenure as Chief Minister in 1996 regarding the settlement of people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He noted, “It was falsely propagated that they would come and take over your lands. I repeatedly clarified that no one could settle here without the Union Home Ministry’s approval, yet no one listened.”
Commenting on the abrogation of Article 370, Dr. Abdullah argued that the special provision was not solely for Kashmiris but was introduced by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1927 to protect Dogras from economic domination by wealthy Punjabis. He observed, “You celebrated the abrogation, but now even domestic jobs are going to outsiders. Servants are being brought in from outside. Think about what you have gained.”
Call for Unity and Gender Equality
Dr. Abdullah highlighted the need for internal unity, stating, “Put your house in order first. If your house is not in order, how can your country be?” He also expressed disappointment over delays in implementing reservations for women in Parliament, asserting, “Men often hesitate to share power with women, hindering our nation’s progress. We must ensure equality for men and women to truly advance.”
Recent Political Developments
In the recent local elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference emerged as the largest party, winning 42 seats primarily from the Kashmir Valley. The Bharatiya Janata Party secured 29 seats from the Hindu-dominated Jammu area. Despite the NC’s victory, the region remains a union territory under New Delhi’s direct control, with the new local government possessing limited power.
Dr. Abdullah’s statements underscore the ongoing challenges within India, emphasizing the need for unity, countering divisive narratives, and addressing economic concerns to strengthen the nation.
