Farooq Abdullah Expresses Hope for Restoration of J&K Statehood
Srinagar, Sep 13: National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said he remains hopeful that the Centre will respect the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and restore its statehood.
Speaking as guest of honour at a golf tournament in Pahalgam, where around 50 golfers from across the country are participating, the three-time former chief minister said, “God willing, that will also happen one day. We are hopeful that Delhi will pay attention to it. The prime minister will see to it that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want statehood to be restored.”
On recent controversies, including Hazratbal and the unrest in Doda after MLA Mehraj Malik’s detention, Abdullah said J&K has faced challenges since 1947 but expressed confidence that the situation would improve with leadership in Delhi paying heed to people’s concerns.
Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, Abdullah said the incident severely impacted tourism, which is vital for Kashmir’s economy. He stressed that the valley stood united against the attack and highlighted that the ongoing golf tournament sends a message of safety and hospitality to the rest of the country.
“Tourism is essential for sustaining the economy of Kashmir. It benefits both poor and rich. Events like this tournament help end fear and show that the situation has improved,” he added.
