Srinagar, Jan 17, Kashmir Pen – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reaffirmed his stance on working with the Government of India, emphasizing that cooperation does not equate to unconditional acceptance of its policies.
In an interview with a Delhi-based media outlet during his skiing trip in the scenic Gulmarg, Abdullah addressed critiques of his approach to the sensitive matter of Article 370, which granted Jammu and Kashmir special status until its abrogation in 2019.
“Collaboration with the Government of India doesn’t mean endorsing everything they do,” Abdullah clarified. “Should I create conflict with the central government when there’s no immediate necessity for one?”
Responding to accusations from some locals who claim he has abandoned the fight for the restoration of Article 370, Abdullah was candid: “I understand there are those who wish to see us in constant confrontation. But let’s be realistic—it’s naive to think that those who revoked our special status will readily restore it.”
Through his remarks, Abdullah highlighted a pragmatic approach to governance while addressing a topic that continues to stir strong emotions in the region.
