JAMMU, Oct 26: Rajesh Gupta, Senior Leader of the National Conference (NC), today said that the remarks made by NC President Dr Farooq Abdullah regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s political future should be understood in their complete context rather than reduced to a political controversy.
Gupta said that Dr Farooq Abdullah was expressing his concerns about the future, identity and democratic aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that questioning government policies and demanding justice for the people are legitimate aspects of democratic discourse and should not automatically be equated with support for Pakistan.
“Let me make our position absolutely clear: the National Conference does not support terrorism or violence. Pakistan-sponsored terrorism has caused immense suffering in Jammu and Kashmir, claiming innocent lives and leaving countless families traumatised. The pain of victims and the sacrifices of security personnel must never be forgotten,” Gupta said.
He added that Dr Farooq Abdullah’s repeated references to India’s secular and democratic traditions, including the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, reflected his stated commitment to an inclusive India.
Gupta said the concerns expressed by people in Jammu over the controversial remarks deserved to be heard with sensitivity and respect. He urged political parties not to allow differences of opinion to deepen divisions between Jammu and Kashmir or between religious communities.
“Jammu and Kashmir belongs to all its people. Our collective priority must be peace, development, communal harmony and the protection of democratic rights. Political disagreements should be addressed through dialogue and constitutional means, not through inflammatory rhetoric or premature demands for punitive action,” he said.
Reaffirming his support for Dr Farooq Abdullah, Gupta said the National Conference remained committed to democratic dialogue, secular values and the dignity of every citizen.
“We reject terrorism, respect Jammu’s sentiments and believe that the future of Jammu and Kashmir must be built on peace, mutual trust and constitutional democracy,” Gupta added.