National Conference (NC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Saturday expressed hope that the Centre will restore the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir, saying the aspirations of the people must be respected.
Speaking to reporters in Pahalgam on the sidelines of a golf tournament, the former chief minister said, “God willing, that will also happen one day. We are hopeful that Delhi will pay attention to it. The Prime Minister will see that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want statehood to be restored.”
On recent controversies in Hazratbal and Doda, Abdullah said the people of J&K have been facing challenges since 1947. “However, we have to move forward. The situation has improved and I am hopeful that the country’s leadership will understand the need to further improve it by respecting people’s aspirations,” he added.
Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadows, in which 26 people were killed, Abdullah said it was a severe blow to Kashmir’s tourism sector. “Tourism is vital for our economy. Everyone benefits from it. That is why we must ensure peace so that visitors continue to come,” he said.
Abdullah said the golf tournament in Pahalgam will send a positive message across India. “Our endeavour is to end fear after the April attack and to show that Kashmir is safe. We welcome everyone to come and enjoy our hospitality,” he added.(KNS)
