Farooq Abdullah's Statement on Pakistan: Claims Kashmiri Protection, Questions India's Intentions

Abdullah Claims Pakistan's Role in Kashmiri Protection, Questions India's Intentions

Dr. Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and President of the National Conference, made a controversial statement regarding Pakistan on October 24, 2026, during a party convention in Baramulla. He asserted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are 'saved' due to Pakistan raising the issue of Kashmiris on various international platforms, while also casting doubt on the Indian government's intentions.

Abdullah reiterated his party's commitment to continuing the struggle for the restoration of Article 370, granting full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, and safeguarding the constitutional rights of the people. Addressing the convention held at the Dak Bungalow in Baramulla, Abdullah sharply criticized the policies of the central government.

Referring to Pakistan, he stated, “The neighboring country raises the issues of Kashmiris in many places, and because of this, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are saved.”

He further alleged that India's intentions towards Kashmiris are not good. His statement has given a new dimension to the ongoing debate concerning Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional status, political autonomy, and its relationship with the central government. However, news reports available in support of his claim do not mention any independent evidence.

Call for Solidarity for Rights

In his address, Farooq Abdullah urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to unite in defense of their rights. Addressing party workers, he appealed for courage, raising their voice against injustice, and engaging in a common struggle transcending political differences.

Abdullah stated that merely waiting for circumstances to change will not resolve problems; people must actively strive for their rights. He warned that if the public does not unite, protecting their political rights will become extremely difficult.

Vocal on Statehood and Article 370

The former chief minister accused the central government of failing to fulfill its promise to restore the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir. He mentioned that statehood was assured after the delimitation and assembly elections, but this promise remains unfulfilled.

According to Abdullah, the current system of the Union Territory presents challenges in making decisions aligned with public expectations. He highlighted the restoration of full statehood as a primary political priority for the National Conference.

Regarding Article 370, Abdullah clarified that his party will not back down from its demand to restore the former constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed the resolve of party workers to continue the democratic struggle to achieve this objective.

It is noteworthy that on August 5, 2019, the central government abrogated most provisions of Article 370 and reorganized the erstwhile state into two Union Territories named Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Since then, the National Conference has consistently demanded the restoration of special constitutional provisions and statehood.

Concerns Raised on Health Services and Administrative Rights

During the convention, Farooq Abdullah also expressed concern over the issues of health services and administrative rights of medical institutions in Jammu and Kashmir. He referred to the pending matter concerning a two-year compulsory hospital service for medical students and a fine of ₹40 lakh for non-compliance.

Abdullah alleged that the powers of directors of medical institutions and related committees have been curtailed, leading to difficulties in the operation of institutions and essential appointments.

Sharp Reaction from BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly objected to Dr. Farooq Abdullah's statement on Pakistan. BJP spokesperson RP Singh stated that Abdullah should also assess the pitiable condition of people in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) across the Line of Control.

He claimed that after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir has been fully integrated with India, and the pace of development there has accelerated. The BJP also dismissed the argument that the people here are safe because Pakistan raises the Kashmir issue.

Emphasis on Commitment to the Nation

On the other hand, Farooq Abdullah also clarified in his address that his party is not involved in any anti-national activities. He said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir decided to stay with India under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, and they wish to move forward with this nation.

He appealed to everyone to end religious and communal differences and maintain mutual brotherhood. Abdullah believed that the demand for political rights should not be viewed as opposition to the country.

The restoration of Article 370 and the regaining of full statehood have long been prominent political issues in Jammu and Kashmir's politics. It is noteworthy that in September 2026, the Jammu and Kashmir assembly also passed a resolution demanding the immediate restoration of statehood.

However, differences between the central government and the National Conference regarding constitutional rights and political autonomy persist. Farooq Abdullah's statement in Baramulla has brought not only these issues but also Pakistan's role to the center of political discourse.

While the National Conference emphasizes the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's rights and constitutional identity, the BJP views the central government's policies through the lens of national integration and development efforts. Amidst the conflicting claims of both sides, the question of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and its constitutional future remains significant once again.