Srinagar, May 23 : Reaffirming the National Conference's resolve to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and special status, the Deputy Chief Minister has strongly dismissed war as a viable solution to the region’s challenges. Instead, he advocated for peace, unity, and dialogue across all sections of society.
While talking to reporters, the Deputy Chief Minister took aim at those who orchestrated the abrogation of Article 370 and downgraded J&K to a Union Territory. “Those who ruled for years must answer why they allied with forces that later stripped us of our constitutional rights,” he said, challenging the political narrative around past alliances and decisions.
He underscored that from 1947 through the Kargil conflict, it has always been the people living near the borders who have borne the brunt of violence. “Bullets and drones do not differentiate by religion or region — they only destroy,” he said, underlining the human cost of conflict. “War helps no one; it is the common people who suffer.”
Turning to recent disturbances along the border, the Dy CM expressed sorrow over the impact on civilian life, especially in Kashmir Valley. “Our hotels went empty, tourism took a hit, and transporters were left with losses. This should not have happened,” he lamented.
Focusing on governance, the Dy CM shared that during his visit to government offices in Jammu, he made it a point to connect with both officers and grassroots workers. “Senior officers can always approach me, but the workers on the ground often go unheard. I wanted to listen to them personally and share Omar Abdullah’s message of inclusivity and attention,” he said.
He emphasized that the public now demands attention to voices that have been neglected over the past decade. Addressing the cultural disconnect between Jammu and Kashmir, he said: “There was a time when people from the Valley hesitated to visit Jammu and vice versa. That gap must be bridged. I have instructed officials to actively work towards regional integration.” [KNT]
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