Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Apr 25: The President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, Dr Farooq Abdullah, asserted today that the INDIA bloc holds such significant sway in the region that it possesses the potential to catalyze a movement capable of toppling the Government in Delhi.
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Addressing a joint press conference convened at the Congress headquarters in Srinagar, Abdullah, flanked by Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee President Vikar Rasool and other leaders from both parties, expressed his satisfaction at visiting the Congress office for the first time. This visit, he emphasized, was a demonstration of solidarity with the National Conference’s candidate for the Srinagar constituency, Ruhullah Mehdi, during the filing of his nomination papers.
“I am immensely pleased to be here at the Congress office for the first time, underscoring the unity and resolve of our INDIA bloc. Together, we stand to preserve our identity and uphold the sanctity of our nation’s constitution, both of which are currently under threat,” Abdullah said.
Expressing concern over recent remarks made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly his speech in Gujarat, which Abdullah found divisive. “The Prime Minister’s remarks, aimed at religious polarization, are deeply disappointing. It is the duty of the Prime Minister to protect and serve all citizens of our nation, irrespective of their background. Discrimination based on religion or any other factor is against the principles of our constitution, a sentiment shared by the INDIA bloc,” he said.
Reflecting on Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the Valley during the Bharat Jodo yatra, Abdullah underscored Gandhi’s commitment to national unity and the safeguarding of the constitution. “Our candidate for Srinagar, Ruhullah, embodies this spirit and will advocate for all citizens, regardless of their background, to safeguard our region’s unique identity,” he said.
Abdullah urged the people to repose their trust in the INDIA bloc to safeguard the nation’s institutions. “We pray for the victory of the INDIA bloc and its subsequent formation of government in Delhi, ensuring the preservation of our constitution,” he said.
Highlighting the necessity for the Election Commission to operate independently and the imperative to restore the credibility of the judiciary, Abdullah said: “Additionally, the appointment of new governors who prioritize the welfare of the people over appeasing New Delhi is crucial.”
Abdullah also addressed the issue of institutional leadership, advocating for competent local individuals to lead key institutions. “Our educational institutions, such as Jammu IIT and IIM, must be led by capable individuals from within our region,” he said.
Regarding the delay in completing infrastructure projects initiated during Omar Abdullah’s tenure, citing the incomplete bridge of Gandbal which caused the boat tragedy as a critical concern. “These bridges were constructed to facilitate education and ease transportation, yet their unfinished state has resulted in tragedies like the recent boat incident,” he said.
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