Srinagar, December 5, 2025 : National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Friday strongly defended the performance of the NC-led Jammu and Kashmir government, asserting that significant progress has been achieved in its first year despite the serious limitations imposed by the Union Territory framework.
Addressing party workers near the mausoleum of NC founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah at Hazratbal on the occasion of his 120th birth anniversary, Abdullah said the government worked under constrained powers, yet remained committed to easing people’s hardships.
“We still have a long way to go, but whatever we could do in one year is before the people. Our opponents will only highlight what has not been done, never what has been achieved,” he said.
Highlighting what he termed the biggest achievement of the elected government, Abdullah said the restoration of democratic space was crucial.
“Today, we can move freely and speak freely. Even our opponents are holding rallies and protest marches. That itself is a big change,” he remarked.
However, he expressed displeasure over some party leaders publicly speaking against the party and its government.
“For God’s sake, tell me what more could realistically be done in one year when almost everything is controlled by the Lieutenant Governor? Despite that, our focus remained on reducing people’s suffering,” he said.
Stressing that NC legislators were working on the ground, he added:
“Our MLAs are reaching every corner and addressing public issues. People want instant change, but transformation takes time.”
Calling the current political path “like walking on a razor’s edge,” Abdullah said the party was moving forward despite immense challenges.
The former Chief Minister assured that visible development would take shape over the next four years.
“We still have four more years. God willing, people will see real transformation in their areas,” he said.
Urging greater youth and women participation in politics ahead of the upcoming Municipal and Panchayat elections, Abdullah said:
“The time has come to bring forward young, educated faces—especially women. Our boys and girls must step forward and serve the people.”
He also cautioned party members against indiscipline and internal discord.
“Everyone is issuing statements. This must stop. Unity is the key to strengthening both the party and the government.”
Calling on party workers to stay united and fearless, Abdullah said:
“Opponents will try to create obstacles, but don’t be afraid. God gave you success once and will do so again.”
Concluding his address, Abdullah said he chose not to return to Parliament deliberately to allow new faces to represent public issues.
“I could have gone to the Rajya Sabha, but I wanted those to go who can raise the real issues of the people,” he said.
