Jammu, Mar 04: In a heated session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took a strong stance against the development seen in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), labeling it as a mere “showoff” facilitated by China. His comments came after a verbal clash between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National Conference (NC) members over the state of border infrastructure and development in the region.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah swiftly intervened in the debate, stating that the so-called development in PoK was not the result of Pakistan’s efforts, but rather the result of China’s involvement. He also took a dig at the notion of foreign-backed progress, asserting that India has never sought external aid for infrastructure projects in its border regions.
“We need to accept that while there has been limited development on our side, deliberate attempts have been made on the other side to showcase progress,” Abdullah said. “However, this development in PoK was driven by China, not Pakistan.” He added that India has never sought assistance from any foreign nation, such as China, America, England, or France, to construct its roads or infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also criticised the portrayal of growth in PoK, stating, “They made people wear coats to create the facade of development. However, in reality, the pockets of those coats are empty.”
Abdullah concluded his remarks by urging the Assembly not to get bogged down in unnecessary arguments over the situation.
“We should not get entangled in such unnecessary arguments. Wherever there is need for development, it should happen and wherever there is need for further improvement that will also be done for the welfare of the people,” he added .
