Srinagar, Jan 28: National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday called for a united effort to tackle the escalating drug addiction and trade in Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters here, Dr Abdullah described the growing drug menace as a critical challenge, urging the people of Kashmir to act swiftly and decisively.
“This is a wake-up call for the people of Kashmir. The drug trade is fueled by dirty money, and if we don’t wake up now, we won’t be able to curb it,” he remarked.
Expressing concern over the moral and spiritual decline in society, the NC chief lamented, “We are Muslims in name only, not in action, and that is the root of our struggles.” He called for deep reflection and reforms within the community to tackle not only the drug problem but other pressing societal issues.
Regarding the protection of Waqf properties, the former chief minister voiced his confidence in divine protection. “Allah will save us and the Waqaf,” he asserted, stressing the critical role of these properties in the welfare of the community and the need to safeguard them from encroachment or mismanagement.
Dr Farooq reiterated his stance on Article 370, highlighting its importance in protecting the unique identity and interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Article 370 was meant to safeguard the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of their caste, colour, regional identity or religion,” he said.
He once again called for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, underlining its significance for the dignity and self-governance of the region’s people. “We are awaiting the Centre’s decision to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir,” he added
Meanwhile, according to a statement issued by NC, Dr Farooq Abdullah joined thousands of devotees in offering prayers at the Asar-e-Sharif Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar following the Meraj-Ul-Aalam observance.
“He also caught a glimpse of the holy Moi-e-Muqadas on the auspicious occasion and prayed for lasting peace and prosperity to J&K and Ladakh,” the statement said, adding that he was accompanied by MLA Chanapora and his political advisor Mushtaq Guroo and publicity secretary Ghulam Muhammad Mir Saqi
