Shadow Correspondent
Srinagar, Jan 28 :
National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said that his party will continue to wait for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
Speaking to media persons at Hazratbal, where he had gone to pay obeisance on the occasion of Shab-e-Meraj (the night of ascent), Abdullah reiterated his commitment to the cause.
When asked why the restoration of statehood has been delayed, he said, “Ask those who are delaying it. We are waiting for it and will continue to wait.”
On the issue of Article 370, the NC President, who recently was quoted having said that it was for Dogras, emphasized the Article was for the protection of the erstwhile state and its people.
“The Article was for safeguarding the people of Jammu and Kashmir, including Dogras, Ladakhis, and others,” he said.
Abdullah expressed deep concern over the growing drug menace in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that it has severely impacted society. “Those who are selling, bringing, and consuming drugs are our own people,” he remarked.
“I am happy that police are making all out efforts to arrest the drug dealers”, he said and added “I appeal to the people to provide information about the drug dealers so that they could be dealt with by the law of the land and get punished severely”.
When asked about India’s accusations against Pakistan regarding the drug problem in Kashmir, the former Chief Minister said, “I don’t know who is to be blamed.” However, he added, “We Kashmiris are responsible for destroying ourselves. Wake up, as the call has already been given. Act before it’s too late.”
He underlined the lucrative nature of the drug trade and its far-reaching consequences. “Drugs involve big money, and many people are drawn to this dirty trade. Unless we Kashmiris unite to fight this menace, we will never overcome it,” the NC President warned.
