Farooq Abdullah: NC Aims to Work with Centre, Calls for Statehood and Unity

National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah emphasized on Thursday that his party seeks collaboration, not conflict, with the Centre to address the challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing reporters, he dismissed claims that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acts under New Delhi’s influence, asserting that he works independently as an elected leader. Farooq reiterated his party’s stance of maintaining no ties with the BJP and urged both central and state governments to prioritize addressing pressing issues like unemployment, healthcare, and education in the region.

Amid concerns of fissures within the opposition INDIA bloc, Mr. Abdullah clarified that the alliance transcends electoral politics, aiming to strengthen India and eliminate hatred. He reassured the permanence of the coalition, despite differences, and highlighted the need for unity in addressing national challenges. Responding to questions on statehood, he reaffirmed the NC’s demand for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood to stabilize governance and empower local administration.

Farooq Abdullah also expressed concern over the recent Tirupati temple stampede and upcoming Maha Kumbh, urging authorities to prioritize safety measures at religious sites. Stressing the cultural and religious importance of such events, he called for meticulous planning to prevent untoward incidents, particularly for the safety of women and the elderly.

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