Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah said on Wednesday that India is not under threat from outside but from within. He stressed the importance of unity and countering divisive statements to secure the future of the country.
Addressing a function at the National Conference (NC) headquarters here, Dr Abdullah said, “Even today the country is demanding sacrifices to save itself. India is in danger not from outside but from within. Only people inside the country can destroy it, not people outside. To strengthen the country, we have to strengthen ourselves, our brothers and sisters.
Dr Abdullah criticized divisive propaganda, especially statements like ‘Hindus are in danger’. He said, “There are 80 percent Hindus in this country, so where is the danger?” The purpose of such statements is to create fear among people. It is everyone’s duty to eradicate this lie.
He referred to similar propaganda spread in the past and how during his tenure as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in 1996, misinformation was spread about the settlement of people from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).
He said, “This propaganda was spread that they (people from PoK) will come and occupy your lands. I repeatedly clarified that no one can settle here without the approval of the Union Home Ministry, yet no one listened to me.
Commenting on the abrogation of Article 370, Dr Abdullah argued that the special provision was not just for Kashmiris, but Maharaja Hari Singh had introduced it in 1927 to protect the Dogras from the economic domination of wealthy Punjabis.
“You celebrated the repeal, but now even domestic jobs are going to outsiders,” he said. Domestic helpers are being brought from outside. Think what you achieved.”
Highlighting the growing economic challenges after the abrogation of Article 370, he said, “Your lands are being taken away and jobs are no longer reserved for you. Outsiders shy away from coming to Kashmir because they fear the majority Muslim population here. This is what we tried to warn you about.”
On allegations of being a traitor, Abdullah said, “I am a Muslim and I am an Indian Muslim. I am neither a Chinese nor a Pakistani Muslim. But this propaganda continues. Even Hindu members of the National Conference were once called Pakistanis.
Expressing gratitude for the people’s support, Abdullah said, “We faced many challenges, but never gave up.” My father also faced difficulties, but we did not give up. If we stay on the right track, work honestly and ensure justice for all, we can overcome any challenge.”
He urged party leaders to avoid division and remain available to the public. He stressed the need for internal unity. He asked, “First get your house in order.” If your house is not well, how will your country be well?”
Highlighting the need for united efforts for nation building, Abdullah said, “This country can progress only when we are all happy and united. India is full of diversity, comprising of different castes and regions and our strength lies in our unity amidst diversity.”
On gender equality, Abdullah expressed disappointment over the delay in implementing reservation for women in Parliament. “Men often hesitate to share power with women, which hinders the progress of our country,” she stressed. We must ensure equality for men and women to truly move forward.”
