Srinagar, Nov 18: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday urged all the secular forces of India to put up a strong and joint front against the communal forces that are hell-bent to tarnish the secular fabric of India.
Abdullah, according to a party press release, addressing various public meets at Lucknow, UP, said that the communal forces are again racking up the poignant and sensitive issues in order to garner support and polarize the electorate in the forth coming parliamentary elections.
“The nation has had enough of it, the propensity of the situation demands for a progressive and secular government at the centre that can cherish and advance the secular values of our nation,” the NC president said.
Abdullah, who represents the Srinagar parliamentary constituency in Lok Sabha, said that changing names of cities and the fanning up of passions in the run-up to elections reflect that the BJP-led central government has miserably failed to deliver on developmental front.
“People are well aware of the fact that how they keep throwing catchwords as development. The need of the hour necessitates for a government which can deliver without much fanfare and slogan-mongering. The nation has had enough of it,” he said.
He impressed on the governments of India and Pakistan to shun enduring hostilities and give peace a chance.
“I am of the firm belief that the constituency of those who seek peace on both sides of the border far exceeds that of those who want war. Hawkish people and outfits ought to be sidelined,” he said.
Abdullah said that the increased levels of animosity and tension between India and Pakistan affects the political and economic activities of the people in Jammu and Kashmir.
“It is the common people who are suffering on either sides of the border and the line of control. Every time it is lit up with fire common populace faces the brunt of it. Innocents get killed, many resort to migration leaving their homes and fields,” he said.
Abdullah urged upon the GoI to show empathy with the people of Kashmir, especially the youth who stand disenchanted with the present situation.
“Government of India should reconcile with the youth of Kashmir in order to increase the constituency of peace in the state. The iron fist strategy will push the already aggrieved and aggravated youth to wall,” he said.
He urged the GoI to come up with people-friendly CBMs to offer some respite to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The best confidence building measure would be to implement the autonomy resolution which was passed by the state legislature with two-thirds majority. The step could go a long way in instilling confidence in the people of state. It will also advance unity and brotherhood in the state,” he said.
