21 October, 2024;In a significant statement, National Conference (NC) chief and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah voiced his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position regarding talks with Pakistan. Abdullah firmly stated that any dialogue between the two nations would be futile as long as Pakistan continues to harbor and support terrorism.
Speaking on the matter, Abdullah emphasized that for peaceful relations to exist between India and Pakistan, the neighboring country must put an end to its support of terrorist activities. “If they (Pakistan) want good relations with India, they need to put an end to this (terrorism). Kashmir Pakistan nahi banega,” he said, underscoring his firm belief that Kashmir will not become part of Pakistan.
Farooq Abdullah’s remarks come in the context of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with terrorism being a critical issue in bilateral relations. His support for Prime Minister Modi’s hardline approach highlights a rare political consensus on national security, particularly regarding Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah’s statement also reflects his long-standing position on maintaining Kashmir’s status as an integral part of India, while advocating for peace in the region.
The NC chief has historically been a strong voice for dialogue and diplomacy, but his current stance reiterates the importance of curbing terrorism as a precondition for any meaningful talks with Pakistan. His remarks echo the sentiment that until terrorism is stopped, no fruitful negotiations can take place, aligning with the Indian government’s consistent approach to the issue.