Farooq Abdullah Advocates Dialogue to Resolve Kashmir Dispute

Srinagar, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has reiterated the necessity of dialogue between Pakistan and India to address the ongoing tensions in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and to ensure peace in the larger South Asian region.

According to Kashmir Media Service, during a media interview in Srinagar, Abdullah highlighted the importance of considering the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, including those from Ladakh. He referred to recent violent incidents in areas like Rajouri and Surankote as evidence that the region remains volatile and argued against the BJP government’s claims that the repeal of Article 370 would quell militancy.

Abdullah emphasized that militancy continues despite the abrogation of Article 370, suggesting that the underlying issues stem from the ongoing Cold War between India and Pakistan. He stressed the urgent need for both nations, which possess nuclear capabilities, to commence a dialogue to prevent potential catastrophic outcomes. He criticized the Indian government for manipulating the sentiments of the people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, underscoring the critical need for their voices to be heard in any resolution process.