National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah called for a united front among the people of Jammu and Kashmir to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its supporters in the upcoming elections. Abdullah made these remarks during an election rally in Anantnag, which was also attended by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Alliance for J&K’s Identity
Addressing the crowd, Abdullah emphasized the importance of the NC-Congress alliance in preserving the identity of Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the BJP for allegedly releasing individuals from jail to influence the election, suggesting that their intent was to use these individuals to suppress the Muslim community. “We have to defeat the flower (BJP’s symbol) and others who have been released from jail. For God’s sake, tell me, why have they been released? They (BJP) want to use these people to oppress Muslims. Unfortunately, they do not realize that there is a special place for them in hell,” he said.
Critique of Prime Minister Modi
Abdullah accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of engaging in divisive politics that undermines national unity. He condemned Modi’s statements, which he claimed spread hatred and division. “I have never heard a Prime Minister making such a speech. He spreads hatred when he says the Mangalsutra of Hindu women will be taken away. Then he says Muslims produce more children. What is it that keeps India together? It is equality and brotherhood. As long as this flower (BJP symbol) is in India, the country will not be strengthened. The country will suffer due to the fissures created by them,” Abdullah asserted.
Significance of the Alliance
Highlighting the challenges of forming an alliance with Congress, Abdullah acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but deemed it necessary for the protection of Jammu and Kashmir’s identity. He framed the election as more than just a political contest; it is a matter of survival and dignity for the region’s people. “Today the question is whether people of Jammu and Kashmir can live with honor and dignity,” Abdullah said.
Concerns Over Governance and Employment
Abdullah criticized the current governance structure, alleging that many administrative positions are occupied by individuals from outside the region. He expressed concerns over local job opportunities and the impact of external administrators on regional needs. “There are a lot of proxies of the BJP here who want us to remain slaves. Today, the question is not who will form the government or about development. The question is whether we will survive or not. Our youngsters are not getting jobs; all are coming from outside. All DCs and SPs are from outside,” he stated.
Conclusion
Farooq Abdullah’s rallying cry highlights the NC’s strategy to counter the BJP’s influence and protect regional interests. The NC-Congress alliance aims to safeguard Jammu and Kashmir’s unique identity and address local governance issues as the election approaches.
