SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday called on secular, democratic and patriotic forces to unite against hatred, communalism and religious intolerance, while reaffirming that his party would continue its peaceful and democratic struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional rights.
Addressing senior party leaders, office-bearers and workers in Srinagar, Abdullah expressed concern over what he described as growing social polarisation and divisive politics in the country, saying such trends threatened India’s unity, integrity, composite culture and secular character.
He said India’s freedom was achieved through the collective sacrifices of people from all religions, regions and backgrounds, and stressed that the Constitution guarantees every citizen equality, religious freedom, freedom of expression and justice.
Referring to Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional relationship with the Union of India, Abdullah said the erstwhile state acceded to India under specific constitutional assurances that granted it a distinct constitutional position. He said those guarantees were gradually eroded, culminating in the abrogation of the region’s special constitutional status.
Reiterating the National Conference’s stand, he said the party would continue its peaceful, democratic and constitutional campaign for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status and the constitutional rights of its people.
Abdullah also said all religions promote peace, humanity, justice, compassion, tolerance and mutual respect, adding that no faith advocates hatred or violence. He expressed concern over what he described as increasing instances of discrimination against minority communities and urged people to reject the politics of division and uphold communal harmony, constitutional values and national unity.
Meanwhile, Abdullah expressed gratitude to all those who offered condolences following the demise of his younger brother, Sheikh Mustafa Kamal.
He thanked political leaders, religious scholars, civil society members, trade bodies, the media, public representatives, National Conference leaders and workers, relatives, friends and well-wishers for standing by his family during their bereavement.
Abdullah said the overwhelming support, prayers and expressions of solidarity from people across all walks of life had given strength and comfort to the family during its time of grief.
