At ‘Statehood Now’ event in Delhi, NC President slams growing divides, questions J&K’s loss of statehood, and calls for restoration of democratic rights.
New Delhi, July 23 (KNS): National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah, speaking at the “Statehood Now” public meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday, voiced deep concerns about the direction India is taking and urged for the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood.
According to KNS, the event was organised by the Forum for Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir at the Deputy Speaker’s Hall, Constitution Club of India. Dr. Abdullah spoke about increasing religious divisions, the weakening of democratic values, and the ongoing marginalisation of Muslims, Adivasis, and backward communities.
“I am a Muslim, and I will remain one. But I am an Indian Muslim. When will you begin to trust the Muslims of India?” he asked. “This is not the India I grew up in, and I’m not going to accept this as my India.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelI want an India where we exist as equals, love each other, and rise above religion, region, and language,” Abdullah said, as reported by KNS.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made during the Partition and India’s freedom struggle, Dr. Abdullah reminded that the Constitution gives every Indian the right to vote and live with dignity, regardless of their background. He said these values now seem to be under threat.
He also criticised the 2019 abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, calling it unjust and unlawful. “Who gave you the right to take away our statehood? Did you ask the people? Was the assembly in session? Even the then Governor admitted he didn’t know the law,” Abdullah said, referring to a recent interview of the former Governor. (KNS)