JAMMU, OCTOBER 30: National Conference President and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah emphasized Jammu and Kashmir’s integral place within India, affirming it as the “crown of India.” Visiting Raghunath Bazaar, he declared that Pakistan’s attempts to sway the region have continually failed.
Dr. Abdullah urged citizens to remain resilient in the face of terrorism, encouraging them to confront this ongoing challenge without fear. He acknowledged that separatist aspirations have been unsuccessful, expressing hope for a developmental resurgence under the current government to elevate Jammu and Kashmir to greater heights.
Addressing the halt of the “Darbar Move” in 2022, a bi-annual tradition initiated by the Maharajas where government offices shifted between Srinagar and Jammu, Dr. Abdullah lamented its loss. He believes reinstating this practice could foster unity between the two regions and bring back Raghunath Bazaar’s past vibrancy. Recalling his childhood visits to the market with his father, Sheikh Abdullah, he praised the Maharaja’s vision in starting the Darbar Move.
Dr. Abdullah highlighted issues with infrastructure, particularly under the Smart City project, pointing to poorly maintained roads and inadequate lighting in several areas that need urgent attention. He expressed a vision for restored Statehood, with locally appointed officers in leadership roles, and a return to the region’s former prosperity.
Drawing attention to India’s strength in diversity, he urged for reinforced unity across religions and languages. “We are all Indians and must stand united,” he said, stressing that unity is essential for India’s future and warning, “Without unity, there will be no India.”
