Srinagar, Apr 11: National Conference (NC) President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Friday said that lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be achieved through speeches alone, but through real actions that ensure safety and freedom for all citizens, regardless of faith.
Speaking to reporters, Dr Abdullah said the government cannot expect the return of Kashmiri Pandits unless they feel safe. “Until they realise they are secure here and can move freely—until their mothers, sisters, brothers, and children can walk without fear—they will not come,” he said.
He said the conditions must be created to welcome back those who have left. “This cannot happen with mere speeches; it requires action. If we really want them to return, we must show it through our work,” he said.
The former chief minister said terrorism must stop and neighbours – referring to Pakistan – must be told clearly to end support to it. “We must urge our neighbours to stop supporting terrorism. It’s gone too far. We can’t become like them,” he added.
Dr Abdullah said that friendship is possible but must be based on peace. “We can live in friendship, but only if the violence ends. Only then can our people live and progress,” he said.
The NC Chief further said that fear affects everyone, regardless of religion. “As long as terrorism continues, fear will remain—not just for Hindus, but for Muslims too. We must fix this fear,” he added.
He said that peaceful coexistence with neighbours is the only way forward. “Like Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji once said, friends can change but neighbours cannot. If we live with friendship and love, both sides can progress. Hatred will only hold us back,” he said.
Dr Farooq said the current reality reflects a lack of understanding. “Look at what’s happening today. This is the result of not embracing peace. Who asked them to leave? Who didn’t? Tell me their names,” he said.
He said shutting down places of worship sends a dangerous message. “What will we achieve by closing Jama Masjid? Will it show our country that we are at peace? Will it show that Maulvis are not allowed to enter? How can I ask my brothers and sisters to return in such a situation?” he said.
The former union minister said places of prayer must remain open. “This is wrong. They should never close Jama Masjid. People go there to pray, to remember Allah. Closing it sends the wrong message,” he added.
NC Chief welcomes Indo-Pak brigade commander-level meeting at LoC
National Conference (NC) President Dr Farooq Abdullah Friday welcomed the recent India and Pakistan brigade commander-level flag meeting along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. The meeting was held to address issues related to border management.
The meeting, which took place at the Chakan-Da-Bagh cross-point and was led by brigadier-level officers from both sides, was praised by Dr Farooq for its potential to enhance understanding between the two nations, the NC said in a statement issued here, adding that the party chief emphasised the importance of continuing such talks to maintain open communication and negotiation channels between the two nuclear-armed nations.
Dr Abdullah stressed the need for both countries to work towards peace and cooperation, as a climate of mistrust and discord between them hinders progress towards developmental goals in the entire region.
He called on the neighbouring country to take concrete steps towards peace to create a more suitable atmosphere for further cooperation between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Dr Farooq offered Friday congregational prayers at Asar-e-Sharif Dargah Hazratbal. He prayed for lasting peace and prosperity in J&K and Ladakh.
