Wednesday 13th May, 2026
Srinagar, Mar 8: (UNI) Alleging that Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) was trying to polarize electorate ahead of Lok Sabha elections in the country, former Chief Minister Dr Abdullah on Friday said such a tendency will prove detrimental to the unity and integrity of the country.
The National Conference (NC) president said people of the state because of increased animosity between India and Pakistan.
Meanwhile, former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Shafkat Ali Watali today joined the NC.
Addressing party functionaries and workers at his Srinagar residence Dr Abdullah alleged that BJP is trying to create a rift between different communities. “Such a trend will prove detrimental to the pluralistic ethos of our country. India belongs to all and we all have to live in peace and harmony with each other,” he said.
“Minorities in the country are feeling alienated and threatened more than ever. Its for the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address these concerns immediately and put a sense of security among all,” he said.
Commenting on a spree of arrests in the valley NC president said, “Repressive measures won’t prove effective to normalize situation in Kashmir. Banning socio-religious out fits also won’t help. During Jagmohan’s time Jamaat-e-Islami was banned, their schools and institutions were ceased. What was then Governor able to achieve by banning JeI? Eventually they had to hold parleys with them. It is therefore reconciliation and rapprochement only that will solve all the contentious issues,” adding, “Arresting people will not resolve anything in a sensitive state like J&K where situation is always on the boil. Such measures will not help in creating a peaceful atmosphere here. It is only dialogue that holds the way out.”
Dr Adullah expressing concern over the deteriorating India, Pakistan relation said, “It is for India and Pakistan to maintain amiable atmosphere among themselves. It is our state which becomes the battle field for both the countries. People of our state have to suffer tribulation in view of increased animosity between India and Pakistan,” adding, “It is high time for both India and Pakistan to find a solution to the protracted political issue of J&K by giving autonomy to J&K on either sides of the divide.”
On the occasion former IGP Shafkat Ali Watali joined NC. Party Vice President Mr Omar Abdullah was also present at the event. While welcoming Mr Watali, party president said, “I am sure that the party will benefit from the administrative experience and acumen of Watali sahib. I welcome him into the party.”
Shafkat Ali Watali while reposing faith on the party leadership vowed to make party stronger at grass roots.