SRINAGAR, July 27, 2025 : National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has asserted that restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is essential to uphold the Indian Constitution, stating that converting a state into a Union Territory goes against the constitutional spirit.
“If the Constitution is to be respected, states are not downgraded to UTs. UTs are upgraded to states. What did they achieve by converting J&K into a UT?” Abdullah told PTI.
He criticized the Centre’s 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370 and bifurcate J&K, claiming that the promised end of terrorism has not materialized. “They said militancy would die. Has it disappeared or worsened? The Centre must answer in Parliament,” he said.
On Pahalgam Attack & Security Failures
Referring to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, Abdullah said it could have been prevented had an elected local government been in charge.
“I appreciate the Lt Governor accepting failure, but he should have had the courage to resign,” he added.
Political Representation & Democracy Undermined
Abdullah questioned the vacant Rajya Sabha and Assembly seats, calling the absence of elections a “tragedy for democracy.”
“Why hasn’t the Rajya Sabha election been held? Why are two Assembly seats still vacant? What is the Election Commission doing?”
He also dismissed speculation of internal rifts in the party, stating:
“We are a democratic party. People can express their views. This is not the BJP.”
On Pakistan & The Way Forward
Abdullah maintained that war is not the solution, and called for a peaceful resolution that is “honourable for India, Pakistan, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Commenting on separatist leader Bilal Lone’s shift to the mainstream, he said:
“I’m happy they’ve realised J&K is part of India. Now, let them contribute to the people’s welfare.”
Abdullah concluded by expressing hope that all opposition parties, including Congress, would continue to push for the restoration of statehood, as they’ve already raised the issue in Parliament and with the Prime Minister.
