JAMMU, Oct 26: Senior BJP leader and former Sarpanch Adv Devraj Sharma has strongly condemned the reported remarks of National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, who claimed that Pakistan was protecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir by repeatedly raising the Kashmir issue at international forums.
Reacting to Abdullah’s statement, Sharma said it was deeply unfortunate that a senior political leader, who had held the highest constitutional office in the erstwhile state, was projecting Pakistan as a protector of Kashmiris while questioning the intentions of the Indian government. He said such remarks were politically irresponsible and risked lending credibility to Pakistan’s narrative on Jammu and Kashmir.
“Pakistan cannot be portrayed as the protector of Kashmiris while ignoring its alleged role in cross-border terrorism, violence and decades of suffering endured by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Those who speak about the welfare of Kashmiris must also acknowledge the immense human cost of terrorism and the sacrifices made by our security personnel and innocent civilians,” Sharma said.
Sharma said political leaders must exercise responsibility while making statements on sensitive national issues. He questioned the wisdom of giving Pakistan credit for championing Kashmiris’ interests without adequately addressing the hardships and political grievances of people living in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve peace, security, economic opportunities and democratic empowerment, rather than political narratives that could create confusion among the younger generation.
“Pakistan’s repeated international references to Kashmir do not automatically make it a well-wisher of the people. The real test of any country’s intentions lies in its actions and its treatment of people. Our political discourse must remain centred on the dignity, aspirations and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
The BJP leader asserted that Jammu and Kashmir’s progress should be judged through improvements in infrastructure, employment opportunities, tourism, education, healthcare and public services. He said the region’s youth needed better opportunities and a peaceful environment in which they could realise their aspirations. Sharma maintained that legitimate public concerns, including the restoration of statehood, could be debated through democratic and constitutional means. However, he said such issues should not be used to portray Pakistan as a benefactor or cast unwarranted doubts on the country’s commitment to its citizens.
He called upon the National Conference leadership to clarify its position on Abdullah’s reported remarks and urged the veteran leader to withdraw the controversial assertion and offer an unconditional public apology.
Emphasising that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, Sharma said the region’s future must be shaped by the aspirations of its people and their participation in the democratic process.He appealed to citizens, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant against divisive narratives and to prioritise communal harmony, national unity and constructive engagement.
“Jammu and Kashmir needs responsible leadership, peace and progress. Political differences are natural in a democracy, but statements concerning Pakistan and Kashmir must be made with a full understanding of history, national security and the sentiments of the people. Our strength lies in unity, our hope lies in development, and our future lies in a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir,” Sharma said.