Farooq Abdullah's Bold Stance on Jammu and Kashmir's Autonomy

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah asserted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are the true owners of their land, countering any notion of subservience to the Centre. Speaking to reporters in Budgam district, he urged BJP supporters to reconsider their stance and called for dialogue between India and Pakistan for regional stability.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah declared emphatically on Thursday that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not subservient to the Centre, but rather the rightful proprietors of their land.

Speaking in Beerwah, Budgam district, Abdullah stated, 'We are not their slaves. People of this state are the owners of this place, remember it,' signaling a robust stance on the region's autonomy as he escorted a party candidate filing nomination papers.

Addressing BJP supporters in Kashmir, Abdullah urged them to come to their senses, warning them of impending challenges. He dismissed concerns over leaders departing from the National Conference, attributing it to normal electoral processes. On the topic of separatists participating in elections, he suggested inquiries should be directed to those promoting pro-Pakistan sentiment. Abdullah reiterated his call for dialogue between India and Pakistan, highlighting that such talks must occur at the Prime Ministerial level.

(With inputs from agencies.)