JAMMU, Feb 4: Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference, voiced skepticism on Sunday regarding the central government’s assertions that terrorism has been eliminated in Jammu and Kashmir, pointing out that if militancy were truly over, events like the recent Kulgam terror attack wouldn’t occur.
He criticized those celebrating victories in the Delhi elections, stressing that it is the decision of the electorate, not himself or his colleague Sakina Itoo.
In reference to the Kulgam attack that resulted in the death of an ex-serviceman and injuries to two women, including his spouse, the former J-K chief minister challenged the government’s claim of a terrorism-free region.
“I ask those who assert that militancy is over. When incidents like this take place, where do their claims stand? Every day, they proclaim in Parliament, outside of it, on mountaintops, and everywhere that militancy has ended.
“If militancy is indeed gone, such incidents should not occur,” Abdullah remarked to reporters after a function here.
He addressed a variety of inquiries related to political and societal topics, including the Delhi elections, the INDIA alliance, the restoration of statehood, and concerns surrounding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Concerning the impending Delhi assembly elections and the BJP’s anticipations of success, Abdullah urged everyone to wait for the elections scheduled for Wednesday.
“They (BJP) previously stated they would come into power in J&K. They indicated that a hung assembly would be a likely outcome.
“Where are their claims now? They seem to have quieted down. The people of this nation, not Farooq Abdullah or Sakina Itoo, will decide,” he commented.
When asked about the potential advantages for the BJP from the INDIA bloc partners like the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) running separately in Delhi, Abdullah dismissed the speculation, saying, “If I were a divine being or a seer (antaryami), perhaps I could foresee this. But I am merely an ordinary individual.
“I cannot predict who will collaborate or not. I didn’t even anticipate our presence here (in J&K),” he added.
Abdullah expressed faith in the INDIA bloc, asserting its progress with divine support and its determination to advance despite opposition.
When questioned about taking measures to unify alliance partners nationally, Abdullah modestly downplayed his influence, stating, “I lack that capacity and I am not the person to do so. We all recognize that together we can achieve better outcomes for this country. Divided, we cannot accomplish anything.”
Regarding the restoration of J-K’s statehood, he reiterated his position and conveyed optimism about its eventual reinstatement.
“God willing, it will be restored. It may take some time, but it will assuredly occur. If I were a prophet, I might predict it would happen immediately, but I am not,” he remarked.
In response to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s concerns about EVMs, Abdullah redirected the conversation to media freedom, questioning the press’s capacity to critique the central government.
“You ask the questions you find suitable. How many of our responses find their way to your publication?
“Can you truly critique the central government? You predominantly criticize the opposition. Your newspaper might face ruin. You risk landing in jail. You continue to please them,” he added.
On the potential for a cancer vaccine similar to the COVID-19 vaccine, Abdullah expressed doubts regarding the COVID-19 vaccine’s rollout, claiming it was administered without adequate trials.
“Currently, we are witnessing its ramifications. Many young individuals are succumbing to heart attacks and other health issues, and it is being suggested that the vaccine may be at fault. We cannot ascertain responsibility until it is definitively established,” he remarked.
Abdullah strongly supported the initiative to create a cancer vaccine, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research: “If a vaccine for cancer is to be developed, meticulous research is crucial. Who claims that a vaccine cannot be developed?
“However, it should not be expedited as the COVID vaccines were. I’ve also received numerous vaccines,” he concluded. (PTI)
