Jammu-Kashmir: Amid rising calls for the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley, National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah has asserted that their homecoming is contingent upon the complete eradication of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks come in the context of increasing peace in the region over the past few years, yet he emphasized the need for a secure environment before any repatriation can take place.
Addressing the media, Abdullah urged neighboring countries to cease their support for terrorism and foster better relations with India. He said, “Jammu and Kashmir will never become a part of Pakistan, and this fact must be accepted.” He underscored that the government cannot facilitate the return of Kashmiri Pandits until they feel safe and secure in their homeland.
“We must prepare the conditions necessary for their return, which cannot simply be achieved through speeches. Concrete groundwork is essential,” Abdullah explained. He said, “If we want to bring them back, we need to urge our neighbor to stop the terrorism. Enough is enough. We can live as friends, but fear will persist as long as terrorism continues.”
Recalling former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s words, Abdullah noted that while friendships can change, neighbors cannot. He stressed that good relations between India and Pakistan are crucial for mutual progress, warning that ongoing hostilities would only hinder development.
Abdullah’s comments come at a time when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been vocal about the perceived stability in the Valley and has been advocating for the return of Kashmiri Pandits. However, his statements have not been well-received by BJP leaders, who accused the National Conference of undermining peace in Kashmir for political gain.
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