Ganderbal, June 09: National Conference (NC) president, Dr Farooq Abdullah reiterated that the issue of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood remains unresolved. He expressed optimism that the commitments made by the Prime Minister—both in Parliament and acknowledged by the Supreme Court—will ultimately be fulfilled.
Speaking exclusively to Rising Kashmir during his visit to the 129th Urs of Mian Nizam-ud-Din Kiyanvi (RA) at Baba Nagri, Wangat Kangan, Dr Abdullah said statehood is essential if we want to address public issues and deliver public services effectively. “Young MLAs are expected to bring change, but how can they fulfil those expectations when they don’t even have the powers a state government provides?” he said.
The NC chief called for roads to be fixed, school infrastructure to be improved, and hospitals to be upgraded.
Highlighting the region’s tourism potential, the former chief minister said that areas like Na-ranag and Gangabal Lake are untapped treasures that could significantly boost the local economy.
Speaking on reviving the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, he recalled that Omar Ab-dullah had already convened a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam—which he attended along with other leaders—to bring tourism back on track. The efforts, he said, are ongoing.
He lamented the declining number of pilgrims at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, attributing it to the prevailing fear among potential visitors. “We will go outside the region, along with other ministers, and personally tell people that Jammu and Kashmir is peaceful. Let them come and take blessings—for themselves and for the nation,” he added.
Responding to a question, Dr Farooq said many people who took loans from banks for build-ing hotels, buying horses, shikaras, and taxis are now suffering.
“The tourism sector has collapsed, and they are unable to repay their loans,” he said. He re-quested CM Omar to take up this issue with the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister, asking for a temporary halt to bank recoveries. “Once tourism is restored, people will repay their loans, but until then, they should be treated with compassion and not be harassed by banks,” he said.
On a personal note, Dr Abdullah highlighted his family’s long-standing connection with Baba Nagri and Mian Altaf Ahmad’s family. “We have both served the people and will continue to do so,” he said.
He concluded his address with a heartfelt prayer: “May the hardships of our people be lifted, may peace prevail in the country and between nations, and may this current era of hatred come to an end by the grace of God.”
